The Jesus and the Mary Chain’s William Reid has said Eddie Van Halen “ruined rock guitar” by inspiring generations of imitators during the 1980s and 1990s. The remarks matter because they challenge the widely held view of Van Halen as one of rock’s most influential guitarists, highlighting a divide between virtuoso technique and a more minimalist, instinctive approach.

In an interview about shoegaze and guitar playing, William Reid called Van Halen one of the world’s worst guitarists and criticised fast, note-heavy playing. His brother Jim said limited technical ability and equipment can encourage creativity, while William contrasted Van Halen unfavourably with Joy Division and New Order bassist Peter Hook, whose riffs he preferred.