(WWJ) Rock icon Eddie Van Halen, founder of the band Van Halen, has died, according his family.
This comes after the legendary guitarist fought a battle with throat cancer.
He was 65 years old.
Van Halen's son, Wolf Van Halen, tweeted on Tuesday:
"I can't believe I'm having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning. He was the best father I could ever ask for. Every moment I've shared with him on and off stage was a gift. My heart is broken and I don't think I'll ever fully recover from this loss.
I love you so much, Pop. "
The Associated Press reports Van Halen's blinding speed, control and innovation propelled the band into one of hard rock's biggest groups, fueled the unmistakable grinding solo in Michael Jackson's hit "Beat It" and elevated the guitar virtuoso to the status of rock god. With his distinct solos, Van Halen fueled the ultimate California party band and helped knock disco off the charts starting in the late 1970s with his band's self-titled debut album and then with the blockbuster record "1984."
Notable Van Halen hits include "Runnin' With the Devil" (1978), "Eruption" (1978), "Hot for Teacher" (1984), "Jump" (1984) and Panama (1984), among many others.
Since the sad news broke, reaction and condolences have been pouring in on social media.
Roberto Boschian @RobertoBoschian tweeted: "Edward Van Halen was a hero and inspiration to not only me but to millions of guitar players. I've read every interview, own every album. A true legend has left us. This is the biggest musical loss of my generation so far."
Mitch Benn @MitchBenn wrote: "Practice hard enough and you can become a good player but very few musicians single-handedly redefine how their instrument is played. You can pretty much divide lead rock guitar into the pre- and post- Eddie Van Halen eras. Good job, Eddie; RIP."