Top 5 Eddie Van Halen live guitar god moments

Shining light on a musical genius' greatest performances
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By , RADIO.COM

From the moment you first heard his virtuosic display of talent on the guitar, Eddie Van Halen had you hooked.

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The late Van Halen guitarist would have turned 66 on January 26, making it an opportune time to revisit his masterful guitar work. Eddie may have been best known for popularizing the tapping style of guitar playing (see “Eruption”), but his wide range of abilities were best on display in the live setting.

In celebration of his 66th birthday, we're counting down the top five live Eddie Van Halen solo moments. Classic rock purists may disagree on placement, but we can all agree there will never be another guitarist like Eddie.

Van Halen

5 2015 - Jimmy Kimmel Live! - Hot For Teacher

The sexually charged 1984 classic is a gem of the glam rock era. The fact Eddie was still able to rip this track for a new generation tells you a little something about this fearless Guitar God.

4 1983 - US Festival - Runnin With The Devil

This festival was famous for David Lee Roth's helicopter entrance, but most intense VH fans will marvel at Eddie's epic guitar work on "Runnin With The Devil."

3 1988 - Les Paul Television Special - Cathedral and Hot For Teacher

What makes this performance so memorable is Eddie's ability to seamlessly jump between two songs with diverging tempos.

2 1984 - Victory Tour - Beat It

The King of Pop's epic hit wouldn't have a leg to stand on if Eddie Van Halen didn't contribute with a remarkable guitar solo. This performance in Dallas, TX exemplifies that best.

1 1982 - Live without a net - Eruption

Who in their right mind would drag a burner while completing one of the most difficult guitar solos known to man? Eddie Van Halen, that's who...

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