Alex Van Halen Reflects on Brother Eddie’s “Beat It” Solo and Band Tensions in New Memoir

In his forthcoming memoir Brothers (set for release on October 22), Alex Van Halen opens up about long-standing tensions within Van Halen, including his disapproval of his brother Eddie Van Halen’s decision to play the iconic guitar solo on Michael Jackson’s 1982 hit “Beat It.”

Despite Eddie’s solo becoming one of the most recognizable guitar moments of the ’80s, Alex remains critical of the collaboration, revealing that it broke a longstanding band rule against side projects. In a recent Rolling Stone interview, Alex explained his frustration: “Why would you lend your talents to Michael Jackson? I just don’t f—ing get it.”

Eddie’s involvement in “Beat It” had immediate and lasting effects. Not only did Thriller become a global sensation, holding Van Halen’s own 1984 album from the top chart spot, but it also intensified tensions within the band. David Lee Roth soon pursued a solo career, leading to his departure in 1985.

As the memoir’s release nears, Alex’s reflections offer a deeper look into the internal conflicts that shaped Van Halen’s legacy, shedding new light on key moments in rock history.