Van Halen is an American hard rock band named after the brothers and band members, Edward and Alex Van Halen, guitarist and drummer, respectively. The band was well-known in Los Angeles' club scene in the 1970s, and eventually KISS member, Gene Simmons, noticed the band and financed its demo. The release of Van Halen's self-titled debut album followed shortly after, in 1978. Even though many band members came and went, Edward and Alex have remained the core of this band that continues to excite audiences with its raw live sound. Sadly, Eddie Van Halen passed away in 2020 after battling cancer for several years.