After news of the passing of Eddie Van Halen began to ripple through the music industry, a number of friends, fans and former colleagues began sharing memories of the famous guitarist.

Most notably, both of Van Halen’s tenured frontmen shared brief, yet powerful messages in EVH’s honor.

“What a Long Great Trip It’s Been,” David Lee Roth wrote, posting a photo of himself and EVH backstage on one of Van Halen’s more recent tours.

“Heartbroken and speechless. My love to the family,” Sammy Hagar added, alongside an arm-in-arm photo with his late bandmate. (Roth served the band from 1974–1985 as well as a brief stint in 1996 and their current era from 2007 to present; Hagar, on the other hand, ushered in the “Van Hagar” era of the group from 1985 to 1996, as well as a 2003 to 2005 reunion run.)

Fellow rock gods Metallica also shared their condolences for Van Halen’s loss, remembering their time in the late-80s when they shared time on tour.

“We are enormously saddened to hear about the untimely passing of Eddie Van Halen,” read an official statement. “We considered him an inspiration, an idol, and after spending a summer together on the road in ’88, a friend.”

Added rocker Joan Jett, “Eddie was a pioneer, a genius and a friend. Today, the world has lost a legend, and a true original. Sending love to his family and friends.”

Speaking from the perspective on jam scene, Warren Haynes acknowledged EVH’s prowess and significance in the rock pantheon, writing, “I never knew Eddie- never had the opportunity to meet him- but as someone who has studied music since I first got the ‘bug’ as a kid I am compelled to say that the loss of Eddie Van Halen today is monumental!”

Phish’s Trey Anastasio added, “How can I even write about Eddie Van Halen? He towered above all guitar players when I was young, and he still does… The elegance in his playing boggles my mind and fills my heart every time I hear it. He was pure flow and joy. Thank you so much for your gifts Eddie.”

In perhaps the most poignant remembrance, Lenny Kravitz noted, concisely and accurately, “Heaven will be electric tonight.”

Read memorials by David Lee Roth, Sammy Hgar, Metallica and more below:

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What a Long Great Trip It’s Been..

A post shared by David Lee Roth (@davidleeroth) on

RIP Eddie Van HalenThere are a handful of people with any musical instrument that we can credit with actually changing…

Posted by Warren Haynes on Tuesday, October 6, 2020