[For Beginners] Van Halen Trivia Quiz

music writerKOH-1
Started working as a music writer as a side job while employed at a record shop, and have been contributing to music magazines and web media for over 15 years. Although Western music is my main field, I always strive to stay curious with the motto, “I like what I like.” I have experience playing in a band, where I was a bassist responsible for songwriting and composition. Instruments I’ve performed on include bass, guitar, and piano. I resumed piano lessons after turning 40 and have been continuing ever since!

Van Halen, the legendary band behind massive hits like “Jump” and “Panama.”

Formed around the Van Halen brothers as their name suggests, the band became hugely popular in Japan as well, powered by Edward Van Halen’s groundbreaking guitar playing and unforgettable, catchy melodies.

Although the band’s history sadly came to an end in 2020 with Eddie’s passing, we’ll introduce trivia and fun facts about this beloved group—across generations—in a quiz format.

It’s beginner-friendly, but includes a few slightly deep-cut questions too, so fans, be sure to check it out!

[For Beginners] Van Halen Trivia Quiz (11–20)

What is the Japanese title of the legendary instrumental number “Eruption”?

Sonata of the Underworld
Bombing in the Dark
Rhapsody of the Heavens

See the answer

Bombing in the Dark

Van Halen’s “Eruption” is known in Japan by the Japanese title “Kurayami no Bakugeki” (“Bombing in the Dark”). There’s also a well-known anecdote that producer Ted Templeman happened to overhear Eddie practicing the piece on his own and decided to record it.

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In conclusion

Van Halen’s great legacy lives on in many forms—from their still-beloved mega-hits to Eddie’s legendary performances—but learning about each member’s personal stories may reveal new facets of their appeal.

The band’s golden 1980s era also produced plenty of wild tales from their Japan tours, so if you’re interested, be sure to look them up!