When alot of fans decide to think of the legend known as Eddie Van Halen, they often picture the blazing guitar solos and specially craftly innovative techniques that transformed the world of rock music and appeased their melody buds. However behind the legendary musician’s talent was one major influence who might surprise you so well and you will not expect his name is Eric Clapton whom is also a legend. And also he is the same, person who dominated the 60s years with Cream and delivered soul catching blues performances and melodies he was Van Halen’s guitar icon whom he learnt almost all of his well celebrated skills from.
While several guitarists have in one way or another impacted Eddie van Halen’s successful and dedicated musical journey, Clapton stands out as his true guiter inspiration. In some interviews, Van Halen has openly expressed his admiration for Clapton his guiter idol, often saying he spent countless hours learning his solos In his mama’s closet, particularly from the Cream era which was his best. It was not just Clapton’s technical prowess that locked Eddie in but it was his ability to combine raw emotion with proper precision.
Eddie Van Halen, whom is mainly famous for tapping, finger picking, and sheer speed, often credited Clapton’s simplicity and special function touch as key ingredients that shaped his sound all over his career. It is evident that even the most successful and talented artists have their own heroes whom they look up to , and for Van Halen, Clapton was the ultimate inspiration for their success.
Therefore anytime you as a person listen to Eddie Van Halen’s iconic riffs and sounds, remember there’s a bit of Clapton’s influence running through every note that you are hearing.
