Eddie Van Halen having a wonderful time

Van Halen in the early days was something else. Wild, loud, and completely unstoppable. In this episode of Through the Lens, legendary rock photographer Neil Zlozower shares how he ended up right in the middle of it all, camera in hand, documenting the chaos and the incredible rise of the band Van Halen. From the first time he saw Eddie Van Halen on stage, Neil knew this band was different. “No one played like that,” he says. And once he started shooting them, he never looked back. Neil takes us inside those early days on the road, from packed-out arenas in San Diego and Long Beach to that unforgettable Day on the Green in Oakland. But this episode isn’t just about the live shows. Neil tells the wild story of how a stash of long-lost photos from the Van Halen II sessions—shots he hadn’t seen in over 40 years—ended up at an auction. And how he got them back. Among them were rare, candid images of Ed, Dave, and the band during one of their most iconic eras. What makes this episode special is the energy in every frame. Sardine-packed crowds, Roth mid-air, Ed down on his knees with that grin, Alex behind the drums—it’s all there. These aren’t just photos. They’re rock and roll moments frozen in time. In the full episode available now on Gibson TV, Neil opens up about Eddie’s quiet side, how he always had a guitar in his hands, and what it was like shooting a band that was constantly moving, constantly loud, and always ready to blow the roof off. If you love Van Halen, you’re going to love this. ABOUT GIBSON Gibson, the leading iconic guitar brand, has shaped the sounds of generations of musicians and music lovers across genres for 127 years. Founded in 1894 and headquartered in Nashville, Gibson has a legacy of world-class craftsmanship, legendary music partnerships, and progressive product evolution that is unrivaled among musical instrument companies. The Gibson family of brands includes Gibson, the leading guitar brand, as well as many of the most beloved and recognizable music brands, including @officialepiphone, which has been on every stage since 1873, Kramer, the original Made To Rock Hard guitar brand, MESA/Boogie, the home of tone, and KRK, behind great music for over 30 years, and Maestro, the founder of effects pedals. We are dedicated to quality, innovation, and sound excellence so that music lovers for generations to come will continue to experience music shaped by Gibson.

Added 9 Apr 2026