Van Halen soundcheck - Eddie's roaring opening lick.

My Instagram: ...
Disclaimer:
I said "That's Alex, yeah" over the guitar playing because the guy next to me kept saying a million times "hey there's Alex", "that is Alex", "Alex is there" in the minutes leading up to Ed playing.... Bro, Ed is ripping into his thing, just stfu already. I wasn't going to let some weirdo ruin me hearing Van Halen for the first time. And it wasn't me calling out "I want michael anthony" either for the smartass pointing it out. It was that same weirdo.
Happy days. Enjoy.
=VH=

[@nickdjordjevic1828]

An update since our hero left us: I have nothing but eternal gratitude that I was able to enjoy this moment. I will never forget this day and the sheer luck that led me to witness Alex, Wolf, Dave and our Beloved Edward in a candid, behind the scenes type of setting. Seeing Van Halen perform later that night was a religious experience, but there is something about seeing our Hero in his own time tinkering around with his gear, wandering the stage and the street while trying to perfect his sound and just seeing his facial expressions read "little more of this, that's good, hmm a bit more... okay great" that feels more lively than what any ticket could buy. I never expected to witness this, let alone record it. The gods blessed me and only a handful of strangers standing beside me that beautiful day. I never expected almost one million people to view this, too. I had uploaded this, and the other videos I recorded that day to KZbin for the sole reason that, if I was ever feeling down, or had a slow day or needed to cheer up a friend, I could type in the name in the search bar and up would appear the happiest day of my life, forever within a click away. I'm glad almost one million of you can enjoy this, too. It's not professionally filmed (many of you have made that... well... disgustingly clear.) but it is a window into a moment that happen to be, by chance, the happiest day of my life thanks to Edward Van Halen. For the longest time, this was the one I truly feared the most at the thought of leaving. I am in disbelief, shock, hurt and I can't actually believe, so abruptly, this guy has left us. The greatest virtuoso guitar player of all time, Eddie Van Halen was more than an idol to me. He was more than an inspiration. I can't quite figure out just what he was to me, which is why I spent years and years, days and nights, just gazing over any pictures I could find, any single video I could watch, any hidden song or demo I could find just to get more wrapped up in the enigma of what this guy and his music even was and is. Eddie Van Halen is possibly the sole reason I take any vested interest in music today. He's the reason I so terribly try to emulate what ever the fuck it is he's doing on guitar. Above all he's the reason, many summers ago, I got through some of my darkest days - for which I am in eternal gratitude for. He's the reason it made me believe it's okay to not do things conventionally. That your best ALWAYS comes out when it's done your way. In any way. In any aspect of life. This year has been beyond rough, and we've all lost a lot. Today, I lost my idol and I'll sadly never see this God perform again with a smile. Holding a guitar will never feel quite the same to me. Today, Eruption will be blasted and my ears will ring for as long as they can. I love you Eddie Van Halen. Rest in paradise, the last true Virtuoso. The hardest rocking guitar player of all time. Just like his guitar playing, it'll be a long, long time before I can wrap my head fully around this.

[@jasonpanelli4446]

Where was this at?

[@gavinvalentino1313]

Wow. You caught a bit of a soundcheck. ़

[@eddylindner1317]

Amazing Brother. Rock and Roll. !! !! !! !!

[@jfoss1974]

Every show was an amazing experience! RIP EVH!

[@tjh315]

Jimmy Kimmel show ??

[@drewmaymusic7438]

I remember a house party on a Saturday night in the spring of 1978 and someone pulled the needle off the record in the middle of a Steve miller song and everyone yelled at him. Ten seconds later we were stunned with what we heard. It was played back to back to back three times side A then side B over and over no one could believe it. Van Halen’s first album next day I bought the 8 track and wore it out. Great times back then.

[@richmorgan244]

Great debut albums my last three years of high school. 1976 Boston, 1977 Foreigner, 1978 Van Halen. Awesome music during a fun (?) time.

[@drk321]

I first saw Van Halen on one of those late night rock shows on TV. They had 2 new artists they were showing. The first was a guy called Johnny Cougar (Of course it was Mellencamp, a complete unknown then) and then Van Halen in a dark room playing "You've really got me". Of course I was stunned. Had never heard of them before. The next day when I got to school, EVERYBODY was talking about this amazing band. I think Eddies guitar was a blue, lightning bolt shaped thing but he was using it in a way I could never have conceived a guitar to be played.

[@john-t-bjohnb3588]

My older sister had the record and 8track and would let me use them. She let me keep the 8track when she moved out. I bought the cassette as soon as I could then the CD. Never forget the 8tracks. The middle of Jamies Crying when Daves voice and the music would fade then the mechanical click and switch to the rest of the song with full volume again.

[@bman3020]

@@richmorgan244 Heart Too.

[@joedames7432]

Wait what

[@finisplayhouse]

That was recorded on the balcony at the dolby theatre. I was standing right next to you, lol...what a day! Thanks for posting!

[@nickdjordjevic1828]

What a small world! There was only about 5-7 of us max that were standing there for this 5 years ago! glad we get to reconnect via this VanHalen brotherhood hahahaha

[@finisplayhouse]

@@nickdjordjevic1828 Totally remember! Eddie walked up and down the street while playing to make sure the fans attending got a real show! We had the best seats until they kicked us out and closed off that area 🤣

[@christopheryasus3666]

@@nickdjordjevic1828 KOOL STORY GUYZ

[@seanriopel3132]

Was this when Dave got wacked with the mic?

[@christopheryasus3666]

@@seanriopel3132 no bro that was dif

[@allainangcao28]

Eddie: *checks with simple chords* Also Eddie: *initiates warp drive*

[@epsilon6516]

The sound guy needs to hear his full range of how he’ll play live so that he can get the levels right.

[@bilanggoboy]

That roar, through that cavernous reverb, was the greatest guitar tone I have ever heard.

[@odom2142]

It’s all in his hands

[@shreddievanhalen1]

@@odom2142I hate to break it to you, but reverb is not in anyone’s hands

[@clunt2548]

@@shreddievanhalen1I wish we had built in reverb lol

[@ModernApostle00]

@@odom2142Tone is not in the hands.

[@steviesfv7782]

Can always spot Alex's playing. Plays the drums the way Ed plays guitar.

[@geargeekpdx3566]

Eddie was like an F-22 Raptor and Alex was rolling in with the Howitzers

[@jamesgilliam9863]

I was waiting a block away. The excitement grew as I could hear this loud from down the street. I waited all day to see them. 8 hours in the hit california sun. Got to be about 20 feet from Eddie. One of the best days of my life.

[@danielvelsor5693]

@1RoomPlayhouseCom I wouldn’t mind catching covid if it meant witnessing evh close up

[@TylerLedford-x4o]

Why do people always mention how close an entertainer was to then? What is the significance?

[@Komani115]

I come back to this clip all the time. That opening lick is just ELECTRIC. No one will ever do it like him again.

[@hillbrothersarcade7630]

Nobody ever..... the GOAT

[@luvmedrums4057]

If Alex was in any other band he would probably get the recognition he deserves.When your a little bro is a guitar God, you get overshadowed.AVH is a badass drummer!!!!!This coming from a drummer He is easily in my Top 10 greatest Rock Drummers of All Time

[@fobbitoperator3620]

Intruder, Little Guitars, Mean Street, & Dirty Movies are his tunes! Even with Eddy's riffs, Alex's drums just fVcking...BOOOOM!!!

[@jfo3000]

I've always felt this was about AVH!

[@leopardcubpupkryky6940]

Everyone give Alex the credit he deserves.

[@jarrettrobinson9687]

The drums at the beginning of hot for teacher and throughout the song r 🔥

[@rickeymitchell8303]

He should have incorporated more gimmicks to his stage presence and playing

[@mlaforce]

You have admit, Eddy aged better than most Rockers from his Era even though he had been fighting that awful disease. I wish I was up there with ya watching this performance, Thanks for sharing.

[@coldwinter5710]

Eddie looked absolutely fantastic here!

[@in2livinit]

He REALLY bounced back after his lows on the mid 90's to mid 2000's era when he looked like hell. Damn shame he was dying on the inside. RIP GUITAR

[@leopardcubpupkryky6940]

You do know smoking 3 packs a day for 40 years plus being an alcoholic will give anyone an "awful disease".

[@standdown4929]

@@leopardcubpupkryky6940 Did you know that holding a metal pick in your mouth, on your tongue, right where Eddie did and the cancer started in that same spot and agreed by his doctor can cause cancer? Go watch the interview... And yes, drinking and smoking can cause problems...

[@robb7565]

He looks terrible and weathered - he gained weight because he's not doing coke and meth all day long. his face is puffy - he always looked like shit- Hes a rock star so everyones in awe of any band member of bands they love-- but he seriously always looked shitty - even younger -

[@MyKittyPercy]

He’s gone 😭 Thanks for the memories and great music Ed. You were magical.

[@friedtawilis0741]

The world will miss him. Such a great musician!

[@iridemxallday9658]

Rip

[@alicassidy8913]

Such a kind, loving man..

[@fendrhead]

He definitely left a huge legacy. Shoes no one can ever fill

[@Darkaxelgaming-tt7ip]

I just wanna say this f*ck cancer dude it killed a legend

[@DonnyHooterHoot]

Miss who?

[@BEERFEST07]

I hear a lot of people talk about how there's this twelve year old kid that can shred faster and more technically than him, but I've never heard another guitar player who blows me away equally with both their raw ferocity, and yet playing with such smoothness of feel quite like Eddie Van Halen. Even in his improvisations, his playing catches your attention. His guitar solos have a wide variety of interesting emotion and intensity, and his rhythm playing tells a story that you can tap your foot to. Not to mention he's written so many classic songs. Pure old fashioned Rock 'n roll with the perfect blend of blues and swing, it doesn't get any better than old school Van Halen.

[@jackfetter]

EVH set the bar with guitar tone, feedback and harmonics, his sound is so rich, so full and warm that he literally set the standard for guitar sound from the 80's on. "Eruption" is a master class in technique, style, sound, tone and taste in a 2-minute solo that still to this day has no rival...

[@clubhouseme]

how many good songs has this kid written.. get back to me

[@lfader]

OH THAT KID selling out bedrooms worldwide ???? 😆😂😂

[@lfader]

@@clubhouseme 🤔🚫🚫🚫😆😆😂😂😂

[@lilorbielilorbie2496]

@@clubhouseme I'm gonna go with none.

[@andysalter7192]

Honestly Eddie hit a real peak in the last few years of touring with VH. He was on fire.

[@Chrishagen]

Once he got sober RIP

[@butchtankesley7584]

Agreed. I saw them a few times in their last few yrs. Ed was who I was paying to see. He was absolutely awesome!!

[@bdubz5150]

Ed's peak lasted from 74-To 2019

[@chrisrainey3588]

@@bdubz5150 There was a gap in between though. He is god on the guitar! But, He had his moments unfortunately where even gods fail!

[@n0v1ce45]

Mid 2000s was a dark time for Eddie Good thing his last year's were the closest the modern world got to a prime Eddie. Eddie's performances in the 2010s were the closest the world got to the 80s

[@stonesdaddy4743]

I’m 57 and let me tell you, he changed everything!

[@packinaglock]

58 here, and yes it was a wild ride.

[@vox1003]

We know

[@arnoldfernbladst3875]

I'm the same age (born 1963). I've been grieving sick over his passing. If there was ever a defining band for my youth, Van Halen was it. I remember hearing Eruption/You Really Got me on the radio and just being blown away. I remember looking forward to the new album releases and listening to them with friends. So many of their songs were iconic for special moments in high school. Dang - I'm glad I lived it first hand but saddened beyond belief

[@snoopcat7151]

I believe what you say.

[@JohnnyF71]

He changed everything regardless of what age I am - or any of you are for that matter. What is it with having to tell people your age? It just makes me think you're probably 15 😂

[@DoMw94]

I come back to this video every few months. It just makes me feel good

[@jasonmartin7297]

I love how those insane licks just come out of his fingers like you or I breathing! RIP sir, you were and are an absolute Titan!

[@ericirwin413]

Eddie Van Halen, Randy Rhoads are like the Thor and Zeus of the electric guitar and Jimi Hendrix was Odin cause Hendrix was the greatest of them all!!

[@TheArtofGuitar]

I could never be his tech, I'd just be giddy the whole time and asking him, "Um, do you know who you are? You're Eddie freakin' Van Halen!" and I'd get fired.

[@CapitanFinnart]

@Commenter2 No u

[@Bstonz85]

@Commenter2 do you even know what a simp is?

[@TheRbruin10]

@Commenter2 Whats your problem bro! Do you know who your talking too? Art of Guitar is a legit guitar instruction channel and the guy has ACTUAL experience playing in a band / Gig probably when you were barely born. I suggest you check his channel youll like it.

[@TheRbruin10]

@Commenter2 Man what side of the bed you woke up today. Im done here. Peace ✌

[@wannaberabbi9302]

@@TheRbruin10 art of guitar is awesome. When I started out he taught me everything.

[@playhouse888]

I’m so grateful to have lived during Eddie’s reign. He was our Bach, Mozart and Beethoven wrapped up in this amazingly innovative Dutch boy! He will be missed.

[@drewflynn7562]

I'm 15 currently and I basically worship him 😀 RIP to literally the best guitarist to ever live and I hope I can to a certain extent figure out his style

[@francescolavilla271]

@@drewflynn7562 you will I’m 42 , been playing for 5 years and can play some of his staff… You are still very young

[@One-EyedMisfit]

@@francescolavilla271 I’ve been playing for years and I still suck. But Van Halen keeps me trying

[@francescolavilla271]

@@One-EyedMisfit practice legato for at least 45 min a day 5 days a week…

[@pvbaelen]

Actually half Dutch and half Indonesian. His mom was from Indonesia.

[@planesandguitars3434]

Eddie is the real deal. Builds guitars; a one of a kind musical gift to the human race.

[@billyjoechambers8494]

Eddie is the Boss

[@dennisgraham9444]

I love that about Brian May too

[@jerryallen1768]

Eddie is very talented too bad though he and Alex are dictators and control freaks. Van Halen was a band, then Dave was let go, then Sammy and then Michael. Eddie ruined Van Halen and his fat son is no Michael Anthony.

[@dananderson916]

Evh is like OCC of guitar building

[@BWater-yq3jx]

I've always had 'super-strat' style guitars. You probably have one too. We can thank Eddie for that! 😎 👍

[@nickdjordjevic1828]

PSA: Before you comment any negativity on the camera quality in any way, I filmed this 110% only for myself and uploaded so I can forever remember seeing Van Halen live and access it anytime. It's a privilege you get to even see this. Be grateful.

[@kennedycrevoiserat7095]

Thanks for sharing. I thought it was pretty cool

[@revredbeard3289]

Until I read your comment the video quality hadn’t even entered my mind. I was happy just to get to see this raw behind the scenes footage. Thanks for posting it.

[@brink442]

If Van Halen never tours again, I am going to be very, very sad. Thank goodness people like you gave us some behind the scenes of Van Halen’s last active year. I can’t tell you how many times I have enjoyed this video including your excited reaction!

[@pby1000]

Cool video.

[@dukainmanning7246]

To hell with the haters!! This is something a lot of people don't get to experience. Thanks for sharing!!!!

[@patton303]

If I heard that drum kit anywhere without seeing him, I’d know instantly that it was Alex’s kit. Such a signature sound.

[@michaelgreenwood3654]

Dude. I'm with you. I love Eddie, and the carnage that is left behind in the guitar world is still being felt. But I absolutely love the resonant thump that is felt when Alex pounds the skins with the baseball bats he calls drumsticks. The two alone could make you weep.

[@rons-topic1067]

True. Alex and eddie have their unique identification sound

[@ladyyankeerebel3067]

Unmatched tone....one of a kind!

[@coldwinter5710]

I am heartbroken for Alex. He just lost his brother, but also, his very best friend of 65 years. You just can't imagine one without the other. 💔

[@paulgiacalone4471]

This is a gem , especially from a drummers stand point , Getting to hear Alex’s pre show sound check where he is jamming freely is awesome. My heart breaks for Alex too , losing his only sibling. God bless the family. Thank you for sharing this .

[@flyingdutchman80]

Something magical going on here. Very rare to see Eddie just standing there at times with no hands on guitar. You are one lucky dude to have caught this. Thanks for posting

[@leopardcubpupkryky6940]

DERP

[@msfoto3541]

Van Halen fan here. This video just appeared on my feed. It's fantastic. A video from a moment in time that only a few people were able to see and hear. Thanks for posting.

[@raygamino6687]

Eddie will never be gone. As long as we remember him, play his music, and talk about him he’ll always be with us. Long Live the Mighty Van Halen! We miss you and Love You Ed. I hope your shredding with your pa. Rock In Peace!

[@gokhanersan8561]

King Edward forever!!

[@bradbroemmer9085]

You can't replace what is arguably the greatest guitar player ever. Just like you can't replace icons like Prince, Michael Jackson and Neil Peart. I bet they have a Hell of a band up in heaven.

[@mekrabj2901]

Alex behind the drums and his younger brother Eddie screaming a warm brown sound on his guitar is heaven to us V.H. fans for ever. Rest in power Eddie Van Halen!!!!

[@charlesdjones1]

Damn Eddie looks as healthy and on point more here than ever. Keep it up brutherrr.

[@jwblue575]

That is what sobriety looks like .... !

[@johnfortezzo5921]

Charles Jones i

[@yvesdaems6494]

no drugs and no alcohol addiction anymore did the work

[@goodoljackburton9211]

Agreed!

[@seaverrene6486]

CDaniel J80 of course. He’s the mighty Eddie Van Halen. Long live the king 👑

[@teddhires2259]

i can feel the excitement in witnessing this sound check, his guitar had mass power, it makes your heart beat faster, he never lost that because you can tell he loves to play, we lost alot when he left us but im so gratefull i grew up in the age of VanHalen, i got to see them when they were young (1980) and it changed my life forever, i was never the same, thank you for sharing this moment with us, there will never be another like him, and good luck to wolfie as he starts his journey on his own, maybe he will touch some little kids soul like his dad did me so long ago, thanks again brother.

[@marknichols217]

Invasion tour. LR AR. 1980. Jammin' in rock city!

[@luvmedrums4057]

They soundchecking a day B4 the 1985 Texxas jam(Cotton Bowl/Dallas)& people were calling in about there windows shaking&pictures coming off there walls,up to 3-4 miles out.5150 tour,epic!!!!!

[@Roozo411]

Yoooooo two GODS of R&R... what a blessing that they are still rocking! They look great and sound as good as ever. Eddies playing was the ‘roar’ heard round the world. He changed the game forever.

[@mrhoffame]

That 3 mins alone was better than 70% of the concerts you will ever see!!!

[@kelvinwebber90]

Bull.shit....

[@dynjarren8355]

Thanks for sharing this moment behind the scenes. It’s hard to accept how quickly he left us and the shock of his loss. He was the Mozart of the Guitar 🎸. He gave us so many melodic notes that it was amazing and surreal at times. Your lucky to see him live for the last time. I never did. The music will live on but the live experience is gone. Sad but true. RIP EVH-You gave the world an embarrassment of Rich’s!

[@trevorbass2079]

still sounds futuristic and farout of this world

[@GediSpock]

Even after 40 years. Amazing.

[@mrbassslap8930]

Yep

[@carpballet]

Well, in “Back to the Future” it certainly was futuristic. (1955)

[@McgarickWAstate]

That's a cool and gracious thing to say. I DO like him. But not some fan boy of his. He had fun, and a complete Joy to his playing. I wish there was more three piece Rock units with NO vocals, something like Jazz trio, but Rock... RIP

[@leopardcubpupkryky6940]

Where have you been for 40 years?

[@MisterTwister88]

Hard to comprehend that we all now live in world without Edward. Rest easy EVH

[@23skidoo46]

the most telling thing is that even in sound check you know it's Ed. friggin' amazing.

[@illiamdeebe7579]

Thanks for this. So nice to see something candid and casual like this on this sad day. RIP EVH. Never truly gone, because you are a legend.

[@moderateminneapolita]

Eddie used to warm up for hours before a show. I think the best part about his playing back then was his note phrasing, and willingness to try to push the envelope on stage. Now he just plays the flash tapping, Cathedral, and dive-bombs (although he does still do Meanstreet). Fans now don't come to see Van Halen to be surprised. It's now a nostalgia band. No one will be able to replace Michael Anthony's high voice - which made the harmonies uniquely Van Halen. And it really shows when Wolfie just stands there. Michael always gave a 100% show. He was very important.

[@Papatorrejano]

Moderateminneapolita That happens with most artist, becoming nostalgia acts. Important bands becoming brands. That's how it goes. Agree with the Michael Anthony matter. Apparently he is coming back.

[@maristoldboys5466]

Why cant this be love is not the same without Michael Anthony

[@MisterTwister88]

Marist Old Boys Or Sammy Hagar 😎

[@massapower]

Its called aging you TWIT.. he doesn't hand to practice like before.. Geeezzz 🙄

[@jamesd4110]

What I wouldn’t give for a new liver , 30 years, and it be the late 70s and see Van Halen . Oh and rich.

[@robdel7989]

This gives me goosebumps from the grave.. nobody can start a solo like that and give it his all.. so distinctive

[@rons-topic1067]

The band that i love the most. But one precious organ of this band is missing. We will never get him anymore. It really hurts.h

[@MyKittyPercy]

It’s SOUNDCHECK. He is literally CHECKING the SOUND. Some of these comments are just bonkers.

[@sbove]

Your love for Eddie, your passion for his music, your appreciation for his gifts and talents, your gratitude for having seen him play live...this is what music is about, man. Other than love, it touches and elevates the soul like nothing else and the messengers who create it are literally gifts to our species from the godhead. Thanks for sharing and RIP EVH.

[@jrtme]

I remember that day. That was so much fun. It was a real warm day. I am so glad I went down there that day. It’s still talked about to this day. 😊

[@aether13x69]

What gig was this?

[@123ClassicRock]

@@aether13x69 jimmy Kimmel live in 2015 I believe. Lots of KZbin videos of the concert

[@prex4059]

The stage looks like a haladron collider and Eddie’s guitar is the catalyst 😂

[@AviatorMike777]

Farewell to the KING! RIP EVH! Thank you for making my years as a teenager growing up in the 1980's so enjoyable and memorable. I was grateful to see you in concert several times. You will be greatly missed!

[@Curseofsuperbowl49]

Always thought Alex,s drums were freaking awesome and underestimated...

[@angelozararis8096]

Alex you the man And that's an understatement. Thanks for those killer beats. I learned to play because of you.

[@AFloodofSolaceJohnWhigham]

Very good drummer- part of what made Van Halen great

[@damianb2374]

underestimated... by who? the 500 billion that bought the records? or the other trillions that become fans every other day? what planet etc???

[@j_freed]

Although Eddie overshadowed everyone, Alex shares a brain with his brother rhythmically in all those wonderful performances. It’s a unique and important thing together, the two.

[@AFloodofSolaceJohnWhigham]

@@j_freed yes!! So good!!

[@paulgiacalone4471]

What a gem, to get to see this is fantastic especially from a drummers standpoint. To get to hear Alex’s sound check and warm up playing is great . He always sounds great . My Sympathies to him Wolfie , what a heartache to lose your younger brother and best friend. God bless them .

[@mang3139]

Thanks for sharing. Nothing like seeing the man “off camera”, the master at work

[@lovick1]

Same man...he’s the reason I’ve played guitar for the past 35 years. Such a loss. I was unable to speak about it for about a week...couldn’t hold it together. Single largest influence on my life. It’s impossible to put it all into words...but you did as close a job as I’ve seen. Thanks for the tribute.

[@dennisweaver149]

I just discovered this video at 10:21pm EST, 2/14/2024. Apologies for my tardiness. What you wrote here-about EVH, yourself, and the extent he influenced you. Woah. You and I have more in common than most. I will never forget the day he passed. I was driving home from work listening to the radio and loving life. When I got in my car, VH was playing. I remember how freaking happy I was, then without interruption, straight into another DLRVH song and another! 3 in a row. Then the D.J. came on air and broke the news that EVH had passed. It took a second to register, then I turned on my flashers and pulled over onto the median. I cried for nearly a week off & on. Now I just cry when I come across clips like this & read comments like your’s. You are not alone brother.

[@alarsenault1681]

I was a kid from the 80s van Halen was and always will be my favorite ,I have 7 children and I have every song v h ever made ,I often will turn on Panama or any great tune and like the first time I heard them the hairs on my arms and neck stands up lol I tell my son and wife who both plays guitar listen to the master listen to his solos ,this is music and nothing from today or anything in the future will ever come close to sounding like Eddie or the boys of van Halen. Rock gods rip eddie

[@mariadelosangelesmarinpenu981]

You can clearly hear here all that 'state of art' in those monumental sounds and effects Eddie created! is magnificent!.... as innovator, and virtuoso! Nobody come close him....

[@papawbk]

Listening to this reminds me of how underrated Alex is. He’s definitely one of the premier drummers of all time. RIP Eddie!

[@SimplyKelp]

Rip alex

[@Jeff-Vader_head_of_catering]

I'll forever miss Eddie Van Halen. I still listen to my Van Halen music on a weekly, if not, daily basis. Eddie's guitar licks will live on.

[@OGDailylama]

2:47 It might not seem like much but watch how he uses his foot to scratch an itch on his ankle. He’s so used to having total control of his limbs he doesn’t even think about how to use his hands to scratch it…Like most people would do. It’s not just his fingers that were amazing. He dexterity overall was incredible.

[@Zapheteroped]

Saw them at the Califfornia World Music Festival, April, 1978. Absolutely incredible double-tapping and effects. Their first album was played with ceaseless abandon on every rock station and home turntable by 1979. Good to see Mr Van Halen inspired so many! May he rock in peace.

[@Zapheteroped]

Typo correction: the year was 1979 that the CWMF was held.

[@coldwinter5710]

Eddie...always laughing...always smiling...always so happy to be playing his music. What a loss 💔

[@kurtmcclure1224]

Almost the same exact words I told my wife the other day. Hardly ever did he put on a “heavy metal” face but always a beautiful grin from ear to ear... he will be sadly missed. =VH=

[@asmundukkelberg8741]

@@kurtmcclure1224 It seemed that Alex and Eddie were only really happy when they were playing their instruments.

[@coldwinter5710]

@@asmundukkelberg8741 They are true musicians. When you are born to play, it's no different than breathing...only better! Because when they play, not only do they bring themselves joy, they are bringing the rest of us along with them. They fully knew the power of music & their gifts. Hard not to be perpetually happy about that!

[@kalientegirls6277]

One of the greatest live bands gone forever. I was blessed to have them in my teen years and late adult. Always a Dave, Michael, Alex & Eddie original fan but respected their work with Sam too.

[@donbailey6600]

The power the brothers have is a force to be reckoned with.

[@luvmedrums4057]

Only 2 other brothers I know of that had a bond thru blood&music were Dime&Vinny.They worshiped EVH&AVH. Rip, I feel for Alex

[@transmitterguy478]

I’m glad I was born in 1959 and got to experience all the great rockers, soon they will ALL be gone

[@billygreenville59]

Ditto. October '59, here. I was a Beatles fan at 4 years old, thanks to my 15 year old sister. 😊 We arrived at the best time to experience the greatest decades of rock music. 👍 RIP 🎸 EVH 😢🙏

[@AbelieverinHim23]

@@billygreenville59 same Oct 59!!!

[@FantasticF113]

Damn Eddie and Alex have still got it!!

[@Jeanninecomeau]

This is great. I saw Van Halen 3 times and DLR solo tour. I feel very lucky. Being a californian. I'm very proud of our rock and roll hero(s). Thank you for this. I can only imagine what this intimate experience was like.

[@kurtbarlow9917]

In 1984 I heard Jump on MTV. Couldn't believe anyone could play instruments like that... EDDIE had it all.. 1985 back to the future .. Marty played Eddie's guitar solo on his tape deck as Darth Vader from the planet Falcon... Eddie was King .. still is

[@1jamiecarr]

Eddie, You know how talented you were and you knew your talent couldn’t be touched.. You and your talent are now missed and loved by so many. There will never be another Eddie Van Halen. Thank You for being the person you were. Thank You for your gift and talent in music and song. Thank you is not enough to say to someone like you. I bet those harps in Heaven get a sound check. I’m glad you were part of my favorite Band VH. 🙂

[@axe2rock]

Got to love EVH! One of my favorite guitar masters out there.Always love his solos and phrasings, nice vid!

[@johnhooton7403]

Great memory from EVH. Saw Alabama to a victory in T-Town on a Saturday. Drove to Biloxi that night. I had scored a single ticket to VH for the following Monday on the 3rd row. Seeing Eddie and Sammy perform. Nothing like seeing a band up close. In my time had the pleasure of close ups of EVH, West, Bruce & Laing, Edgar Winter (w Ronnie Montrose on g), Johnny Winter, the Dixie Dregs, Bloodrock, Cooper,, Satriana, Steve Vai. Growing up in the 70s the best era of rock that will never be seen again

[@SimonHallMelbs]

That is a beautiful drum kit

[@connor48880]

They’re very shiny and cymbal heavy

[@stanbarrington9698]

I bought Reverand Als big 22 inch ride cymbal made by Paiste.It didnt sound great in a small,dead room,so I took it downstairs in the wide open spacious living room,and it came to life.....as a Jazz ride.

[@loumason6120]

All of Alex's Kit are Awesome

[@rfguitartuition7111]

I can’t believe anybody disliked this! Thanks for sharing this amazing footage of a legend. Fantastic.

[@nickdjordjevic1828]

Dislike? Just wait til you read the bullshit people have said lol

[@aaronwade73]

Eddie was a real baddass. He made that guitar scream. Lost a real great guitarist when he passed. R.I.P Eddie

[@bojansson8719]

A moment to treasure. Thanks for sharing it with us all!

[@manalishifilms]

THAT SOUND STATES EVERYTHING ABOUT ROCK AND VAN HALEN ROLL!!

[@75smurfette]

This is ASTOUNDING and what amazing luck ypu were able to record this incomparablly gifted man in preparation. It's also so sweet thatcyou can see Wolfang there, I've read about how very close they were and how much he loved working with his dad. As sad as we are, my heart breaks for him, as he lost not only a musician but his father, and I know how much it sucks to watch someone go through an extended battle with cancer. Anyway, as a gen-xer, thank god I lived in the age of Eddie Van Halen!!

[@donpodlas5546]

What an outstanding artist Eddie Van Halen was....hard to put into words just how great he was.

[@wademichaels8207]

GOD I miss Eddie. I've needed his awesomeness SO much this year.

[@robertmizek3315]

The long locks may be gone but his musicianship only continues to get better like fine wine.

[@doncummings8599]

By doing what?? playing the same shit almost the same way for 40+ years?? Lemme tell ya something, and all you Van Halen sheep listen up: If it weren't for his iconic sound(ill give him that) and the tapping that everybody went apeshit over for about a minute, He'd be just another guitar player..Vai's better, Malmsteen is better, Gilbert is better, fuck Al Di Meola is better, I dont wanna hear "he writes better songs" yada, yada, the physical act of playing the guitar is what i'm talking about He's played the same shit for 40 years. You listen to Gilbert back in the day and now, his playing(not talking about speed) is better and gotten more inventive..Tell ya a story. I had a guitar player friend that all he did was copy Van Halen songs..Played em better than HE did.Outplayed the "master"**rolls eyes**..Guess what?? he never went farther than his bedroom. He either refused (or couldnt ) play anything else.He'd go to auditions. "thats great, you can play VH... what else"? ...Crickets..

[@robertmizek3315]

Don Cummings Geez buddy, lighten up a little! I’m not a “sheep”. I just liked the chops I heard. I’ve played guitar for over 40 years and could never come close. You’re 100% right that the world has been blessed by great great guitarists having a wide range of styles over the years. Django, Les Paul, Hendrix, John McLaughlin, Di Meola, Segovia, Chet Atkins, just to name a few. Some small stage guitarists that I’ve seen have great talent too; all that’s missing is exposure to a wider audience.

[@Carlitosway2369]

Wow this is so badass!! Whattah phenomenal memory to have!! Check off ✅ bucket list! It’s sad for me cuz I never had the pleasure of witnessing him and Van Halen performing live REST IN PEACE EDDIE

[@paradesitorus5602]

Live or recording or even sound-checking, the late EVH's guitar sound was always amazing.

[@trev827]

Love seeing behind the scenes stuff like this! R.I.P Eddie!!

[@brickaddict1964]

This is one of those videos that you wish would never end!

[@ericrubalcava9428]

Greatest Rock Metal Guitarist of All Time! WOW,, that Roar of his guitar playing is just insane! RIP EVH!

[@diezeldiamond1041]

Eddie Van Halen just doing soundcheck sounds phenomenal

[@clayton1939]

Will never forget hearing Eddie doing sound check in 1998 in Sydney. I could hear him from my hotel room. The excitement of what was to come later that night was spine tingling.

[@marisawoods]

Eddie was so good, it's insane. The first scream on that guitar definitely made the hair stand up on everybody who heard it.

[@papercut407]

RIP Eddie! I saw you at the Cow Palace in Frisco. It was awesome. You were awesome.🙏 prayers for your family. Hang in there Wolfie🙏.

[@gavinvalentino1313]

Written as if the dead and the decedent's family read fanboi KZbin comments. Genius.

[@dwb812]

Eddie was a pioneer and guitar genius. RIP Eddie!

[@2012Edger]

Thank you for recording this widescreen! This is so cool. I’ve seen them and have been a fan since the beginning. Bravo.

[@pamforsyth2932]

Eddie Van Halen is playing.his Heart out in Heaven let me Tell Ya. RIP Buddy 🎸🎸🎻🎻🎸🎻

[@LT-ri8rq]

I got the goose bumps on my arms and legs when he let that first riff go. Magic. 🔥

[@fortiond3830]

Always feel can tell a lot about a guitarist by the first thing he does with a guitar when he picks one up. VH... straight off the bat.

[@trudat1732]

Who doesn't remember the first time they heard eruption and immediately bought VH1 .... his sound is unmistakable and we were fortunate to have been blessed... gonna miss him RIP Eddie!

[@tonyrutan]

I was standing next to you taking still pictures. Glad to see it on video.

[@nickdjordjevic1828]

Tony Rutan I remember you standing there! Nice to connect after all that time. Do you still have your photos from the day anywhere accessible? Would love to see a few as a momento! haha

[@datsnuffydude5460]

Since you posted this five years ago, my belated thanks. DAMN, he and Alex are just messing around! Again, I appreciate you posting this. RIP EVH.

[@slamarmarcus600]

Alex is one of the Drummer greats,seen them 6 times 78-89

[@pandapeep1148]

Eddie was otherworldly. No other explanation. But let's not forget how amazing Alex was on drums too. So glad I got to see them live. Other people go to church revivals and feel born again. Going to Van Halen for a true music fan was that kind of feeling.

[@voodoowhiskey2958]

great video, thx for posting, I frickin' love Eddie

[@madmax8949]

February 10th 1978, a day that will forever be remembered in rock-n-roll history.

[@jasonsabourin2275]

Call me A fan boy I don't care, I could've watched/listened to that All Day.

[@davearonow65]

You are a fan boy.

[@jasonsabourin2275]

@@davearonow65 Wuuuuu THANKS, I Needed That!!!!!

[@gergemall]

Loved Eddie . He’s always smiling while he plays .

[@VangeliRock]

I'm Five Thousand One Hundred and Fifty years old, and let me tell you, I have never heard anything like this.

[@The123kk40]

Happy birthday!

[@jblcva]

Got to see these guys when they were still hungry. Just starting out. Alexanderia Louisiana 1979/80. They were headlining a 4 band concert. Was a Sunday night and after witnessing that show by Van Halen nobody wanted to go home. I have vintage picture of Eddie and Alex's 1st drum set in the picture. Week later they opened up for the Stones at the Superdome. If they put on same show we witnessed they blew the Stones out the building...Amazing we had never seen anybody play guitar like that before. was a member of the musical community there at the time..

[@jondoe6273]

I really like that last song they did. I believe the name of it is "Hey".

[@michaellefave3355]

saw these guys promote there first album at the old boston garden they blew the roof off the place my ears were ringing for two months never forget that show ever they were only kids bac then no more than 22 to 25 years old i was about 17 to 18 my self rest in my friend god bless