Edward Lodewijk «Eddie» Van Halen (1955–2020) was a Dutch-American guitarist whose technique and gear innovations reshaped rock guitar.

Van Halen's two-handed tapping, explosive vibrato, and brown-sound distortion on tracks like «Eruption» redefined what electric guitar could do in a pop context. He built the Frankenstrat — a part-Fender, part-Gibson hybrid with humbucker and single-coil pickup — chasing a unique feel and tone unavailable from stock instruments.

He collaborated with Peavey on the 5150 amplifier series and later launched EVH-branded guitars and amps. Van Halen also experimented with keytar-style controllers and synth-guitar hybrids, though his legacy rests primarily on virtuosic playing and amplifier design.

Van Halen's influence spans metal, hard rock, and instrumental guitar culture; generations of players study his rhythm feel, phrasing, and relentless pursuit of personal sound.

Notable gear: Frankenstrat, EVH 5150/III amps, Wolfgang guitars.