LAS VEGAS, NV - MAY 17: Musician Eddie Van Halen of Van Halen performs onstage during the 2015 Billboard Music Awards at MGM Grand Garden Arena on May 17, 2015 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

We lost our hero to cancer two years ago on Oct.6, 2020.

The first thing I remember is a Twitter message from Wolfgang: “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 recover from this loss. I love you so much, Pop.” Personally, my own heart sank. I felt as if a lifelong friend had passed. The tributes continue to this very day thanks to social media. We now live vicariously through Wolfgang watching him carry the Van Halen Family legacy. So far he is doing all of us proud.

The first time I discovered Van Halen was at a friend’s house. The first song I heard was “Eruption,” and I asked my friend, “Are you sure the record isn’t on the wrong speed? There’s no way a guitarist could be this fast.” It was a few years that I would catch a show at Cobo and was hooked on them as one of my favorite bands. They had the whole package: guitar, drums, bass, and one flamboyant lead singer. Years later in my radio career, I got to meet them all. On the VH Balance tour, I got the one-on-one meeting with Eddie and to see all the awesome guitars. The gold ‘Lil guitar, the red-white striped guitar. And got to very lightly shake his hand. The only time I was ever mad at Ed is when he married my crush growing up Valarie Bertinelli! I forgave him immediately as I almost never hold a grudge. Thanks again for being a wonderful soundtrack to my life and radio career at stations like Z-Rock & WRIF. Prayers continue to Wolfgang and his Family, Van Halen crew, and fans as this caught everyone off guard even two years later. R.I.P. Ed and Thank You.
~screamin scott

Meeting my Guitar Hero Edward Van Halen

Van Halen: Their 30 Best Songs, Ranked

Born in Mt Clemens, Screamin has been a part of the Detroit airwaves for over 29 years with 26 at WRIF and 3 years as a morning show host at Z-Rock. When he’s not out on the streets, you can find him in his game room, where he collects jukeboxes and classic pinball machines. Screamin also devotes time doing local charities with his, "Screamin Angels"; and for 15 years with Rock 4 Tots charity. “CHIT” is his local cover band for 10 years all over the Motor City in local bars and has graced the main stage at local festivals like Arts, Beats & Eats warming up for national acts like Cheap Trick, Guess Who & even Salt & Peppa. Screamin’ is the lead singer and also plays cowbell & lead triangle

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