Alex Van Halen, the drumming dynamo and backbone of Van Halen, has received recognition for his indelible mark on the music landscape.
The esteemed 70-year-old percussionist has been declared the 45th member of the Modern Drummer Hall of Fame.
Sharing their reasoning behind this notable inclusion, Modern Drummer stated, “As the foundational beatkeeper and co-architect of Van Halen, Alex’s influence transcends decades, starting from his humble beginnings in Mammoth, evolving into the rock icon we celebrate today.”
Collaborating frequently with his sibling, Eddie, the Van Halen journey officially kicked off in 1977, with Alex playing a pivotal role. He was the driving force behind Van Halen anthems such as ‘Ain’t Talkin’ ’bout Love,’ ‘Unchained,’ and ‘Panama.’
“His rhythmic prowess, notably in ‘Hot For Teacher’, showcases his unmatched skill and innovative drum patterns. Even amidst the band’s evolving roster in the late ’80s and 1990s, the Van Halen brothers were the undying essence of the group. Alex’s contributions, both with the sticks and in the broader musical universe, are truly commendable.”
Succeeding the previous year’s inductee, the revered Taylor Hawkins from Foo Fighters, Alex joins the ranks of celebrated drummers.
Modern Drummer, a publication rooted in Florida, initiated their hall of fame in 1979, with the iconic jazz maestro Gene Krupa as its first recipient.
The hall has since welcomed luminaries such as John Bonham, Neil Peart, Keith Moon, Dave Grohl, Mike Portnoy, Ginger Baker, Stewart Copeland, Phil Collins, Ian Paice, Carmine Appice, and Nicko McBrain.
Van Halen’s final curtain call took place at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles on 4th October 2015. The world mourned the loss of Eddie Van Halen, Alex’s younger sibling and fellow band member, who passed away in October 2020 at the age of 65.
