Great Magazine Reads: Alex Van Halen’s difficult recovery
death of legendary guitarist Eddie Van Halen in October 2020 left his brother, Alex Van Halen, grappling with intense grief and physical pain. Alex had been struggling with spinal issues, and a tragic accident at a shooting range resulted in a broken back, confining him to a year-long period of staring at the ceiling in despair.
In a recent interview at his lemon farm in Ventura County, Alex opened up about his difficult journey of recovery following Eddie’s death. Despite previous quotes that showcased a more light-hearted side of him, Alex’s current state reflected a deeper and more introspective outlook on life.
The possibility of a Van Halen band reunion after Eddie’s passing was briefly considered, but tensions arose when Alex proposed tributes to his late brother in the performances. Former frontman David Lee Roth vehemently opposed this idea, leading to a breakdown in communication and ending any chance of a reunion.
In Alex’s upcoming book, “Brothers,” he delves into the band’s history, notably omitting any mention of Sammy Hagar, the vocalist who succeeded Roth. This decision underscored the significance of Eddie’s presence in the band’s legacy, leaving certain eras unacknowledged.
Various singers were considered to replace Hagar, including Ozzy Osbourne and Chris Cornell, but logistical issues and untimely events prevented these collaborations from materializing. The rift between Eddie and Roth deepened when Eddie’s collaboration with Michael Jackson on “Beat It” shifted the band’s dynamics, prompting Roth to pursue a solo career.
Eddie’s unparalleled talent as a guitarist was often overshadowed by his internal struggles with self-worth and anxiety. Encouraged by external praise, Eddie grappled with feelings of inadequacy and turned to substances to numb his insecurities. Alex believes that Eddie’s substance abuse ultimately contributed to his battle with cancer.
Despite these challenges, Alex remains optimistic about the possibility of creating new Van Halen music. With a collection of song ideas left behind by Eddie, Alex envisions using AI technology to complete Eddie’s unfinished solos and enlisting Robert Plant as the band’s vocalist, hinting at a potential future for Van Halen’s music.
In conclusion, Alex Van Halen’s journey of recovery following his brother Eddie’s death has been marked by physical pain, emotional turmoil, and reflections on the band’s legacy. As he navigates this challenging period, Alex remains hopeful about the prospect of preserving Van Halen’s musical legacy and creating new music in honor of his late brother.