The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony took place over the weekend, and while fans in attendance were excited to see all the musicians joining hall of fame this year, the most highly anticipated moment of the night for many was the Eddie Van Halen tribute. With the guitar legend passing away back in October, fans knew something special would have to happen, and it did as Slash paid tribute to the guitar icon.
Slash, joined by Kirk Hammett and Tom Morello, spoke about the impact Eddie Van Halen had on many musicians. I don’t think there’s anybody that’s picked up the guitar since 1978 that hasn’t been touched in some way by Eddie Van Halen’s influence. I’m going to miss his playing and I’m going to miss him as a friend,” said the Guns N’ Roses guitarist.
Hammett and Morello made similar statements about Van Halen’s influence, comparing him to Hendrix and Mozart during their speeches. This year’s ceremony had been delayed, and was eventually changed to a virtual event featuring pre-recorded segments as part of the HBO special. While fans missed the performances, the words about Eddie Van Halen were very special.