“I Was a Complete Fool, According to the Rest of the Band”: Why Eddie Van Halen Never Made a Dime off Michael Jackson’s Hit “Beat It”

Did you know that Eddie Van Halen quietly and cheaply wrote and played the guitar solo for Michael Jackon’s “Beat It?” Well, if you didn’t, now you do, and you should also know that Eddie Van Halen did not make a single penny of his participation in the song that garnered Michael Jackon loads of cash. To most, it would seem Eddie Van Halen missed out on quite the financial opportunity. Though, for him, it seemingly was never about the cash.

Videos by American Songwriter

Before diving into why Van Halen was not torn up about his lack of compensation, it’s beneficial to acknowledge the booming stature of Jackson’s hit song. Following its 1982 release, the song not only peaked at No. 1 but also became a five-time Platinum single. As of today, nearly 10 million copies have sold, making it one of the best-selling songs of all time. So, yes, Eddie Van Halen might have screwed up a little bit. Though, he seemingly didn’t mind the lack of income.

Why Eddie Van Halen Didn’t Care for The Money

In Edward Van Halen: A Definitive Biography, author, Kevin Dodds and Van Halen recall the story behind “Beat It.” Eddie Van Halen became a part of the project after famed producer Quincy Jones asked him to write and play a guitar solo on the track. Eddie agreed, and Dodds divulged, “Ed eventually revealed that he had done [his guitar solo] as a favor, for no money at all, for no points on the record at all.”

Regarding his lack of compensation, Van Halen stated, “I was a complete fool, according to the rest of the band, our manager, and everyone else. I was not used.” “I knew what I was doing – I don’t do something unless I want to do it,” added Van Halen. His ex-wife, Valerie Bertinelli, added, “Ed never saw a dime; nor do I believe that he ever thought to ask to get paid. That was Ed.”

Upon his death in 2020, Eddie Van Halen had a net worth of $100 million. That being so, it’s not as if the man needed the money. Rather, Van Halen’s refusal of compensation is a testament to his dedication to the game. Van Halen doesn’t do it for the glitz and glamour nor fame and fortune. Instead, he does it sheerly because of his love for music. In short, that is one of the many things that makes him one of the best guitarists of all time.

Credit: Ross Marino/Rock Negatives