Which guitarist played the famous 'Eruption' instrumental on Van Halen's 1978 debut album?

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Eddie Van Halen played the famous instrumental "Eruption" on Van Halen's 1978 debut album. The recording showcased his rapid tapping technique, fluid legato playing, whammy-bar effects, and unusual approach to electric-guitar performance.

Although "Eruption" is short, it had a major impact on rock and metal guitarists. Eddie's two-handed tapping, in which both hands fret notes on the neck, became widely imitated and helped change expectations for lead guitar technique.

Randy Rhoads, Steve Vai, and Joe Satriani were also influential virtuoso guitarists, but none performed "Eruption." Van Halen's debut album was released in 1978 and introduced the band's energetic combination of hard rock, pop hooks, and virtuosic guitar playing.

Source: Wikipedia · fact-checked Aug. 2026

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