Wolfgang Van Halen, the multi-talented son of the late guitar icon Eddie Van Halen, has carved his own path in rock with Mammoth WVH — proving he’s much more than just a legacy name. But when it comes to influences, Wolfgang is refreshingly open about the guitar heroes who molded his style and passion for the instrument. In a recent interview, he named his five favorite guitarists of all time — a mix of innovation, emotion, and raw power that reflects the depth of his musical DNA.
1. Eddie Van Halen
Unsurprisingly, Wolfgang’s first choice is his father — the revolutionary who redefined what the electric guitar could do. “It’s impossible for me not to put my dad first,” Wolfgang said. “He was my biggest inspiration — not just because of his technical brilliance, but because he approached the guitar like no one else ever had.”
Eddie’s legacy as the inventor of techniques like finger tapping and his boundless creativity continue to influence Wolfgang’s own playing, even as he forges a distinctly modern sound.
2. Brian May (Queen)
Wolfgang also praised Queen’s Brian May for his melodic genius and signature tone. “Brian’s playing is so musical — every solo tells a story,” he said. “He never just shreds for the sake of it; it’s always about emotion and melody.”
May’s orchestral layering and warm, vocal-like phrasing have long inspired guitarists who value both technicality and feeling — a balance Wolfgang clearly appreciates.
3. Slash (Guns N’ Roses)
“Slash has that perfect mix of blues, grit, and attitude,” Wolfgang noted. “You hear one note, and you instantly know it’s him.”
Known for his soulful bends and timeless solos — from Sweet Child O’ Mine to November Rain — Slash’s raw energy resonates deeply with Wolfgang, whose own playing often leans into emotional phrasing over flashy technique.
4. Dimebag Darrell (Pantera)
For pure metal ferocity, Wolfgang cited Dimebag Darrell as an undeniable influence. “Dime was a monster — his tone, his riffs, his vibe,” he said. “He could be heavy as hell and still make it groove.”
Darrell’s mix of Southern swagger and high-voltage aggression has inspired countless players, and Wolfgang admits that some of Mammoth WVH’s heavier moments owe a nod to Pantera’s guitarist.
5. Joe Satriani
Rounding out the list, Wolfgang tipped his hat to Joe Satriani for his technical brilliance and compositional mastery. “Satriani is one of those guys who can make complex stuff sound effortless,” he explained. “He’s melodic, he’s inventive, and he always pushes boundaries.”
A Reflection of Versatility and Heart
Wolfgang’s list reveals a lot about who he is as a musician — rooted in innovation like his father, but also grounded in melody, emotion, and attitude. From Eddie’s genius to Slash’s soul, Dimebag’s aggression, and Satriani’s precision, his influences span across rock’s vast spectrum.
As Mammoth WVH continues to evolve, it’s clear that Wolfgang carries forward the spirit of guitar greatness — not as a shadow of his father’s legacy, but as a torchbearer for the next generation of rock.
