Long before they became guitar legends in their own right, Steve Farris and Eddie Van Halen were simply young musicians chasing their dreams on the Southern California club circuit. But according to Farris, even in those early days, Van Halen’s extraordinary talent was impossible to miss.
In a recent reflection on their formative years, the former Mr. Mister guitarist shared memories of playing alongside Van Halen before the latter became one of rock’s most influential guitarists. What stood out most was Eddie’s uncanny ability to channel the styles of his heroes.
“We’re playing Led Zeppelin songs, and Eddie would imitate Jimmy Page,” Farris recalled. “I mean, he had it down.”
The jam sessions often featured material from both Led Zeppelin and ZZ Top, giving the young musicians a chance to test their skills against some of the most demanding guitar-driven rock songs of the era. While many aspiring guitarists could play the notes, Farris said Van Halen possessed a rare ability to capture the feel, tone, and personality of the original performers.
A Future Legend In The Making
Farris’ memories offer a fascinating glimpse into Eddie Van Halen before the fame, platinum records, and arena tours. Even as a teenager, Van Halen was already displaying the musical instincts that would later revolutionize rock guitar.
What impressed fellow musicians was not just his technical ability but his deep understanding of the players he admired. His rendition of Jimmy Page’s style was so convincing that it left a lasting impression on those who heard him.
Yet Eddie was never content simply copying his influences. While he could faithfully recreate Page’s signature riffs and phrasing, he was also developing the innovative techniques that would eventually become his trademark. Those early club rehearsals and jam sessions helped lay the foundation for the groundbreaking sound he later unleashed with Van Halen.
From Inspiration To Innovation
Like many guitarists of his generation, Van Halen drew inspiration from blues-rock giants such as Jimmy Page, but he ultimately forged a style entirely his own. His revolutionary tapping techniques, harmonic experimentation, and explosive stage presence transformed the role of the electric guitar in hard rock.
Farris’ recollection serves as a reminder that even the most innovative artists begin as fans. Before Eddie Van Halen became the musician countless guitarists would imitate, he was a young player studying the masters, learning their tricks, and absorbing every nuance.
Those who witnessed him in those early days, however, already sensed they were hearing something special. As Farris’ story makes clear, Eddie could imitate Jimmy Page flawlessly, but it wouldn’t be long before guitarists around the world were trying to imitate Eddie Van Halen instead.
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