Eddie Van Halen surprised fans recently when he revealed that he had collaborated with LL Cool J on two tracks on the veteran rapper's new album, “Authentic,” which will be released on April 30th.
Guitar World reports Van Halen didn't know what to think initially of LL's invitation to appear on the project, but once he met the legendary rapper, they instantly hit it off and he not only enthusiastically agreed to collaborate on "We're the Greatest," which also features Travis Barker, but to also play a solo on the track "Not Leaving You Tonight," which features Fitz and the Tantrums.
"The thought of me playing guitar to hip hop was definitely left of center, but I was intrigued and I agreed to meet and listen to what he had,” explains Eddie. “I was not only inspired by the songs I heard, but LL's enthusiasm, his down-to-earth personality, the freedom he gave me to co-create and his willingness to, for the very first time, sing the chorus on 'We're the Greatest.' It was like a breath of fresh air that I needed as an artist and an individual."
"The diversity of the songs on this album and the other artists he has collaborated with is outstanding, appealing to multiple genres of music and maybe even creating a few of our own,” he added. “I feel blessed to not only have had the opportunity to work with LL but also to call him a great friend."
When asked why he choose to reach out to the iconic guitarist, LL Cool J expalined, “This album was born out of my true love for music and I knew Eddie shared that same vision for authentic music. I approached this song with the upmost respect for Eddie and his fans, and became friends with him through the process. I was humbled to watch a genius at work and collaborate with such a legendary and visionary artist as Eddie Van Halen, and to bring our two worlds together, was an exciting opportunity. I am thrilled he was up for the ride.”
Eddie has made guest appearances on projects throughout his career, including records by Michael Jackson, Roger Waters, Steve Lukather, Dweezil Zappa, Thomas Dolby and Nicolette Larson.
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