Wolfgang Van Halen has spent nearly two decades living under the shadow of one of the most celebrated names in rock history. As the son of Eddie Van Halen, he’s been the subject of constant scrutiny, from fans comparing him to his late father to critics questioning his every career move. But the Mammoth WVH frontman has had enough.
In a new interview, Wolfgang made it clear that he’s no longer the timid teenager who stepped onstage with Van Halen in 2007. “I’m not a kid anymore,” he said firmly. “People still treat me like I’m that 16 years old replacing Michael Anthony. I’ve grown up. I’ve made my own music. I’ve built my own band. I’m done being a punching bag.”
Since launching Mammoth WVH in 2021, Wolfgang has released three albums entirely written, performed, and produced by himself, a feat that has earned him respect far beyond his famous surname. But even with Grammy nominations and sold-out tours, he admits that public perception can still be frustrating.
“I’ll see comments saying I only got where I am because of my dad, or that I should play Van Halen songs instead of my own. It’s ridiculous,” Wolfgang explained. “I’ve worked my ass off to make something that’s mine. If people can’t see that, that’s on them.”
Wolfgang’s relationship with his father remains central to his identity, but he insists that carrying the Van Halen name doesn’t mean being trapped by it. “My dad always told me to be myself,” he said. “He didn’t want me to copy him, he wanted me to find my own sound. That’s what Mammoth is all about.”
In recent years, he’s also been candid about dealing with grief, online hate, and unrealistic expectations. “It’s funny, people act like I can’t say anything without being compared to someone else,” he said. “I’m just trying to make honest music. That’s all I care about now.”
With Mammoth WVH’s third album, The End, Wolfgang has cemented himself as one of modern rock’s most versatile voices, balancing powerful riffs with emotional depth. And while he’s not interested in silencing critics, he’s no longer letting them define him.
“I’m proud of who I am,” he concluded. “I’m proud of what I’ve built. I’m not a kid. I’m an artist, and I’m here to stay.”
Wolfgang Van Halen may have been born into rock royalty, but his reign as Mammoth WVH’s fearless leader is all his own, and he’s finally claiming it without apology.
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