Eddie Van Halen

 Eddie Van Halen, one of the most original and influential guitarists to have played the American music scenario, was the lead guitarist and co-founder of the hard rock band, Van Halen. Eddie Van Halen was the child of musical parents. He learned piano from a young age which he hated. Instead, he embraced the guitar and was hooked--he was a solitary in his bedroom, studying the instrument. Eric Clapton was a huge fan and he would listen to the recordings each day, attempting how to play his solos. He formed Mammoth along with his brother Alex, bassist Mark Stone, and singer David Lee Roth. After considering several other names, the group members settled on Van Halen as they liked the sound. After Gene Simmons, the lead guitarist for Kiss, heard the band and was impressed, they got their first breakthrough. The band signed a contract to Warner Brothers and released the self-titled album. It was certified Diamond in the U.S. They released numerous other smash albums throughout the time as Eddie's popularity as a master guitarist increased with each passing year.