Alex Van Halen Knighted in the Netherlands
A legendary figure in rock music has been recognized for his immense influence, receiving a royal honor that connects his personal history with his global legacy. Drummer and co-founder of Van Halen, Alex Van Halen was knighted in the Netherlands, the country of his birth, acknowledging his remarkable contributions to the world of music.
The recognition came on Tuesday, September 1, in Nijmegen, where Van Halen was formally appointed a Knight in the Order of the Netherlands Lion. This high civilian award is reserved for those who have made extraordinary contributions to society, underscoring the profound impact the rocker has had on musicians across the globe.
The ceremony took place at the Berchmanianum, the academy building of Radboud University, where Mayor Hubert Bruls presented the honor. The occasion provided a moment to reflect on Van Halen’s role in writing a remarkable chapter in the history of rock music.
Speaking on the sidelines, Van Halen reflected on the meaning of such institutional recognition. “I think institutions like this are important in people’s lives because it adds a dignity and a gravity to what we do,” he remarked. “Whether it’s actually deserved or not, that’s another question. But we can live up to it. That’s the whole thing; you got to have something to live up to.”
Beyond the ceremony, Van Halen continued his connection to Nijmegen by signing the city’s Book of the City, a tome reserved for distinguished visitors, inscribing his name alongside Bruce Springsteen and King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands. The city itself celebrated this connection, honoring the band in turn.
The story of Alex Van Halen is interwoven with the dynamic world of rock and roll. His memoir, Brothers, delves into the shared history of the brothers, recounting their upbringing in Europe, their move to the United States, and their meteoric rise to the peak of rock music. It beautifully details the tight bond between Alex and his guitar hero brother, Eddie, who passed away in October 2020.
Van Halen’s career achievements are staggering. He was inducted into the Rock And Roll Hall of Fame in 2007 and earned a Grammy Award for his hard rock performance in 1991. His impact resonated globally, with the Van Halen band dominating the charts, scoring five No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 chart and more than 20 hits on the Billboard Hot 100. The 1984 smash single “Jump,” for example, spent five weeks at the top of the charts.
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