MUNCIE, Ind.(NewsLink) -- The death of music legend Eddie Van Halen shook the world Monday night, including Brian Casey, who’s a radio host for Muncie's 93.5FM Maximum Classic Rock radio station.
"When I was 14 years old, I went back and bought the first album, the vinyl of Van Halen’s debut. I've been a longtime fan” said Casey.
Halen died at the age of 65 due to a decade-long battle with throat cancer.
The announcement was made via a tweet from his son Wolfgang Halen saying, “I can't believe I'm having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning. He was the best father I could ever ask for. Every moment I've shared with him on and off stage was a gift. My heart is broken and I don't think I'll ever fully recover from this loss. I love you so much, Pop.”
Casey was more than just a longtime listener who recalls fighting the cold weather to see his favorite guitarist.
“I camped out in 1984 at Market Square Arena. It was in March and it was very cold that day. I stayed up all night so I’d be one of the first in line to get a good seat because when they opened the doors you just rushed in. I had third row seats. It was a great show.” said Casey.
In the span of four decades, Van Halen released over a dozen albums. Their 1978 self-titled debut sold over 10 million copies and was certified diamond.Its second track - Eruption - featured an Eddie Van Halen guitar solo that forever redefined their career.
