Credit: Neil Zlozower
In the latest episode of Final Resonance TV’s “Van Halen Stories” Matt Blackett, a former writer for Guitar Player magazine, gives a detailed account of the creation process behind the final Guitar Player Tribute Issue dedicated to Edward Van Halen titled “A World Without Ed”.
In his tribute article, Blackett envisions a world devoid of Edward Van Halen’s life and impact, contemplating the consequences of such absence. He examines the profound influence on the music landscape of the 1980s, the potential lack of inspirational and innovative contributions to the musical gear industry, and the unshakable connections among the die-hard Van Halen fanbase. Speculating on the alternate reality where Edward Van Halen never existed, Blackett underscores the certainty of a distinct and altered world we would have found ourselves in.
Along with discussing his article, Blackett reflects on his firsthand experiences attending Van Halen’s live performances in 1979, 1981, and 1984. He also shares his encounters with Edward and the iconic Frankenstein guitar while working at Seymour Duncan.
by Jeff Goebel
Watch “Van Halen Stories #29 Matt Blackett of Guitar Player Magazine”