In a recent interview with Brave Words, Wolfgang Van Halen, son of the late guitar legend Eddie Van Halen, provided insight into the decision not to release any unreleased music from his father’s vault. The Van Halen fan community might have hoped for more musical treasures, but Wolfgang’s explanation sheds light on the family’s reasoning.
Wolfgang emphasized, “I think what was released is what was released.” His father, Eddie Van Halen, had a clear perspective on his musical legacy, having previously stated, “I released all the good stuff.” The decision to curate and share specific works during his lifetime seems to reflect a deliberate approach to preserving his artistic legacy.
Addressing the potential value of unreleased tracks, Wolfgang acknowledged, “The stuff that’s there is the stuff that fell by the wayside, which, sure, people would probably find worth in it.” However, Wolfgang expressed the importance of considering his father’s absence, adding, “But without dad here, it feels unfair to make that assumption that anything should be… like that’s a decision that can’t be taken lightly.”
This choice holds significance for the Van Halen family, indicating a desire to uphold Eddie Van Halen’s wishes while also respecting the fans’ curiosity. The decision not to release unreleased music appears to be rooted in a deep understanding of Eddie’s artistic intent and a genuine appreciation for his body of work.
In terms of Wolfgang’s experience in the spotlight since his father’s passing, he seems to be handling it with grace. His thoughtful insights into the unreleased music matter demonstrate a mature perspective on both his father’s legacy and the fans’ expectations. Wolfgang’s emergence into the public eye following his father’s death has been marked by a blend of reverence for his heritage and a desire to preserve his father’s musical legacy.
3 comments
I love Wolfie for his maturity ,class, and love for his dad. It is sad when an artist dies and someone else decides to release every chord progression and lyrical rambling he recorded. EVH’s work is already in the public view and what’s not was not intended to be.
I understand that wolf wants to do his own work. But I would like to see and hear something he could find and work on it so he could put out with credit go to EVH AND WVH. I think that is something that he could be very proud of.
Alex and Wolfgang should have final say on what’s released. However, depending on who else is on the recordings; they will have to get their blessings as well.