Who's behind the notes? Discover Van Halen: The Pioneers of Hard Rock Guitar
"Eruption" is a guitar solo by Eddie Van Halen, the legendary guitarist of the band Van Halen. Here are some interesting facts about the iconic instrumental track:
Innovative Tapping Technique: Eddie Van Halen's use of the two-handed tapping technique in "Eruption" revolutionized guitar playing. He used both hands on the guitar neck, tapping the strings with his right hand, which was a groundbreaking and influential approach at the time.
Spontaneous Recording: "Eruption" was not originally intended to be a fully-fledged track on the album. Eddie Van Halen was warming up in the studio, and producer Ted Templeman happened to record it. The result was so impressive that they decided to include it on Van Halen's debut album, released in 1978.
No Overdubs: The solo was recorded in one take, without any overdubs or edits. This showcases Eddie Van Halen's incredible skill and precision on the guitar.
Influence on Guitarists: "Eruption" had a profound impact on aspiring guitarists and became a cornerstone for the development of the shred guitar style. Many guitarists have cited this solo as a major influence on their playing.
Recognition and Awards: The solo has received numerous accolades over the years. It was ranked 2nd in Guitar World magazine's readers' poll of the "100 Greatest Guitar Solos" and was also included in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's list of "The Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll."
Live Performances: "Eruption" became a staple of Van Halen's live performances. Eddie Van Halen often extended the solo, showcasing his improvisational skills and wowing audiences with his guitar virtuosity.
Cultural Impact: The solo has been featured in various movies, TV shows, and commercials, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Homage by Other Artists: Numerous artists and bands have paid tribute to "Eruption" by covering the solo or incorporating elements of it into their own music, demonstrating its enduring influence on the music industry.
"Eruption" remains one of the most iconic and influential guitar solos in the history of rock music, showcasing Eddie Van Halen's exceptional talent and innovation as a guitarist.