Eddie Van Halen’s Iconic Guitar Solo: The Story Behind the Magic
Eddie Van Halen’s legendary guitar solo on Michael Jackson’s Beat It remains one of the most electrifying and talked-about moments in music history. Combining Van Halen’s innovative style with Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson’s pop genius, the solo helped bridge the gap between rock and pop, solidifying Thriller’s status as a groundbreaking album.
A Chance Collaboration: How It Began
Eddie Van Halen was approached by Quincy Jones, the producer of Thriller, to contribute a guitar solo to a rock-inspired track Jackson was developing. Initially, Van Halen mistook the call for a prank, incredulous that Jones would reach out to him directly. Once convinced it was genuine, Van Halen agreed to the project, driven more by curiosity and artistic challenge than financial reward. He famously performed the solo free of charge, saying, “I did it as a favor.”
Crafting the Solo: Tools and Techniques
Van Halen’s distinctive sound on Beat It was a result of his inventive approach to guitar playing and his mastery of equipment. He used his custom Frankenstrat guitar in combination with:
- A custom amplifier borrowed from guitarist Allan Holdsworth.
- The pre-amp section of an Echoplex to shape the tone.
Van Halen recorded his solo in a single session after Jones and Jackson brought him a stripped-down version of the song. He even suggested changes to the chord progression, asking Jones to edit the structure so his solo would fit seamlessly in the key of E. This resulted in Lukather and Porcaro re-recording parts of the song to align with Van Halen’s contribution.
The Solo: A Moment of Brilliance
The guitar solo itself is a masterclass in innovation and energy. Van Halen recorded two versions, and the final take reflects his creative brilliance:
- Technical Mastery: The solo features Van Halen’s signature tapping technique, rapid-fire runs, and controlled distortion.
- Musical References: At the end, the solo nods to Jimi Hendrix’s interpretation of Bob Dylan’s “All Along the Watchtower,” showcasing Van Halen’s reverence for rock history.
Myths and Realities: The Studio Session
The Beat It recording session is surrounded by anecdotes that highlight the session’s intensity:
- The Knock at the Door: Just before the solo begins, a knocking sound is audible. Stories differ on its origin—it could have been a person entering the studio or Van Halen himself tapping on his guitar. Interestingly, Jackson reportedly contributed his own “knocks” by striking a drum case, earning himself the credit “Drum case beater” in the album liner notes.
- Speaker Fire Legend: A widely circulated tale claims Van Halen’s blistering solo caused a studio monitor speaker to catch fire, prompting Thriller songwriter Rod Temperton to quip, “This must be really good!” While entertaining, this has been debunked as an urban legend.
Legacy and Reflection
Van Halen’s solo on Beat It helped redefine the role of the guitar in pop music, proving that rock and pop could coexist. It also showcased Jackson’s willingness to experiment and collaborate with artists outside his genre. Reflecting on the experience after Jackson’s death in 2009, Van Halen called it “one of my fondest memories in my career.”
Why Eddie Van Halen’s Solo Endures
The solo’s lasting impact lies in its balance of technical brilliance and emotional expression. For fans of both rock and pop, it is a reminder of the unifying power of music. Collectors still seek memorabilia from the Thriller era, including rare vinyl records, posters, and autographed items. Learn more about these treasures: