Heart guitarist and vocalist Nancy Wilson recently took to her Instagram to show her appreciation for Wolfgang Van Halen’s vocal talents and songwriting in Mammoth WVH.
After Eddie’s passing and Van Halen’s disbandment, Wolfgang Van Halen decided to focus on his project Mammoth WVH. In numerous interviews, the musician said he was trying to find his voice and place in the rock scene. Besides, Wolfgang made it clear that he did not intend to follow in his father’s footsteps or sound like Van Halen.
Despite that, many of his followers harshly criticized him for not playing Van Halen songs on stage. However, Wolf turned a deaf ear to those comments and focused on his music instead. In 2021, Mammoth WVH released his debut record ‘Mammoth WVH.’ In the album, Wolfgang showcased his talents as a musician by playing and writing every song.
In his recent Instagram post, Wolfgang Van Halen recalled when he decided to write songs that would end up in the first Mammoth WVH album. Wolf said he was practicing in the studio by playing drums, and Eddie came in and played bass with him. He then appreciated these moments and said he was now getting ready to start working on the second Mammoth album.
Wolfgang revealed he was still grieving his father Eddie’s passing, and it would be hard for him to record a new album as his father wouldn’t be around. According to Wolf, Eddie’s pride keeps him going, and he tries his best to make him proud. Nancy Wilson came across this post and commented that Wolf’s album is excellent, and she listens to it while working out. She praised his writing and singing talent and asked everyone to listen to the album.
Wolfgang Van Halen’s Instagram post read:
“On December 28th, 2014, I was getting ready to start tracking what would become the first Mammoth album. I had been practicing drums in the studio when Pop came in, grabbed my bass, and started jamming with me. It was so much fun. It’s little moments like these I feel I took for granted. Moments that I can’t have anymore.
As I’m getting ready to start tracking the second Mammoth album tomorrow (I’ve been in pre-production the past month), I can’t stop thinking about this moment and how he won’t be around for it this time. I’m still not used to it. I don’t know when or if I’ll ever get used to it.”
He then continued:
“It’ll be two years in 3 days, and I don’t feel any different. All of these emotions are just kind of sitting in me at all times. Sometimes it’s easier to carry; other times (like right now), it isn’t. His pride keeps me going, but without him here, it’s easy to get lost. Easy to get stuck in my head. Easy to fall into that familiar cycle of doubt and self-loathing.
Somehow, I’ve figured out how to keep going. Music is all I have left when it comes to feeling close to him anymore. But knowing he won’t be here this time to laugh, jam, and hang throughout the process is tough now that I’ve gotten here. All I can do is try my best and continue to be the son he was proud of. I just miss my dad.”
In the comments below, Nancy Wilson said:
“Your album is great, Wolfie! I work out to it, and it’s got a great blend of the ’80s and a whole new again sound. And your vocals and writing kill. Way to go! Everyone check it out!”
Below, you can check out the pictures Wolfgang posted on his Instagram.
Photo Credit: Wolfgang Van Halen – Instagram
