After the devastating loss of his brother Eddie Van Halen in October 2020, Alex Van Halen has been navigating a path filled with grief and reflection. Eddie, who passed away from cancer at age 65, left an irreplaceable void not only in the music world but also in Alex's life—a bond built over five decades of shared joy and anguish, creativity, and friendship.

Now, four years later, Alex still grapples with the intensity of the loss. “The grief is oceanic,” he admits, recalling the profound impact Eddie had on his life. His memories are intertwined with music, as he reveals that his phone houses unreleased Van Halen tracks that encapsulate their musical journey. One look at an MRI of his own spine, revealing a significant injury, shows the physical struggles he has faced, exacerbating his emotional pain.

Amidst this turmoil, Alex is documenting their story in his upcoming memoir, "Brothers." This project serves as a source of catharsis, allowing him to express his love and longing for his brother. “I miss him every day,” he reflects. The book delves into their early years, the formation of Van Halen, and the legendary status they achieved together, encapsulating an era that shaped rock music.

Despite his physical ailments, Alex has started to regain the ability to play his drums, albeit in a limited capacity, thanks to experimental treatments. He recalls the moment when he suffered a severe back injury while shooting, which forced him to confront the reality of his health challenges. Yet, through pain and setbacks, he continues to exude optimism about life and the future of music.

Rumors had circulated about a potential reunion tour, bringing together the iconic original lineup of Van Halen, with Alex and frontman David Lee Roth exploring the possibility. Yet, tensions arose over the need to honor Eddie’s memory during performances, which led to disagreements that ultimately derailed the reunion plan. Roth’s refusal to acknowledge Eddie's significant impact left Alex puzzled and frustrated. “This isn't just a solo act; it’s a team,” he asserts, emphasizing the importance of unity and recognition within their legacy.

In a candid moment, Alex reflects on the uphill battle of addiction that both brothers faced, stemming from a tumultuous upbringing. Their father, a talented musician, struggled with alcoholism, a shadow that loomed over their lives. While Alex has been sober throughout the 21st century, he recalls Eddie's struggles with addiction, which complicated his health in later years.

The brothers shared not only a musical bond but also moments of deep personal connection. From collaborations with artists like Ozzy Osbourne to unforgettable jam sessions with Chris Cornell, Alex reminisces about the pure joy of creating music together. He recalls one standout moment with Cornell that was as powerful as it was fleeting.

As for what lies ahead, Alex is exploring the possibility of releasing unreleased music from the Van Halen vault and is even considering a biopic that would chronicle the band’s extraordinary journey. “There’s a lot of untold stories, and perhaps it’s time the world knows them,” he muses.

In the midst of everything, Alex is adamant about Eddie's lasting legacy. He believes his brother's spirit is very much alive, continuing to inspire him in more ways than one. The brotherly connection transcends even death, with Alex expressing a strong belief that Eddie’s essence remains in his life.

“Wherever Eddie is, he’s fine,” Alex reassures himself, maintaining hope and love for a bond that continues to guide him as he navigates through life’s challenges without his beloved brother. The story of Van Halen will not be forgotten, as the music and memories will forever echo in the hearts of fans worldwide.