In a poignant exchange of music history, the guitar bestowed upon Jason Becker by the legendary Eddie Van Halen in 1996 recently fetched an impressive $110,000 at a New York City auction house, Guernsey’s.
Becker, diagnosed with ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis) in 1989, made the difficult decision to part ways with this cherished instrument to fund his ongoing care, which incurs expenses exceeding $100,000 annually.
The guitar, a symbol of friendship and shared passion, featured Van Halen’s signature and a heartfelt message: “Jason. We will play guitar together in the future. Love â from heart to your soul. Eddie Van Halen, ’96.” Notably, Becker’s thumbprint graced the rear of the neck, adding a personal touch.
Initially estimated to command between $300,000 and $400,000, the emotional resonance of this sale underscores the enduring impact of Van Halen’s gesture towards his friend and fellow musician.
Expressing his gratitude on social media, Becker, conveyed appreciation for the overwhelming support received during the auction. He shared plans for the upcoming year, including the release of new music and other projects, emphasizing the vital role his supporters play in realizing his creative vision.
When the auction was announced last month, Becker articulated his comfort with parting with the guitar, emphasizing its potential to bring joy to another passionate owner. He recounted the generosity of Eddie Van Halen, whose friendship and kindness left an indelible mark on Becker and his family.
The guitar’s significance was further illuminated by Becker’s release of unseen footage from a memorable meeting on August 31, 1996, when Van Halen visited him during a challenging period due to ALS. The video showcased Van Halen’s compassionate side, beyond his musical brilliance, highlighting a friendship that transcended fame and showcased the strength of Jason Becker’s spirit in the face of adversity.
Becker’s journey, marked by prodigious talent, determination, and resilience in the face of ALS, serves as an inspiration. Diagnosed at 19, he rose to fame as part of the guitar duo CACOPHONY and later joined David Lee Roth’s band. Despite the debilitating effects of ALS, Becker continues to create music, communicating his musical vision through innovative means.
His latest album, “Triumphant Hearts,” released in December 2018, features collaborations with renowned guitarists like Joe Satriani, Steve Vai, Neal Schon, Steve Morse, Paul Gilbert, and Joe Bonamassa. Jason Becker’s enduring legacy, both as a musician and a symbol of tenacity, resonates through his impactful contributions to the world of music.
