Damn. What a freakin' bummer. I saw him at the US Festival in San Bernardino, 1983 - they were the headliner on day #2. Roth was pretty drunk but Eddie was amazing.
In 1977 my buddy Elmo went to a concert at Magic Mountain in California. He said he saw this band there that was unbelievably great called Van Halen. Said their debut album would be coming out soon. Bought it as soon as it came out and holy crap he was right. Unlike anything I ever heard, the bass the harmonies, the vocals, the drums and that wailing guitar. So dang fast. I loved this band. I saw them at Texxas Jam in 1979 and am lucky to still be alive (long story). The one thing I loved about Ed was that infectious smile he had while playing. Man, this one hurts.
The first song I’ll play in my New Bronco is 316.
Eddie was an absolute legend and one of the greatest guitarists to ever live! He will be truly missed!