Van Halen's Iconic Debut Album Turns 48

The 1978 self-titled album laid the groundwork for glam metal and other hard-rock offshoots.

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

On February 10, 1978, the legendary rock band Van Halen released their self-titled debut album, which would go on to become one of the most influential rock albums of all time. The album introduced the world to Eddie Van Halen's electrifying guitar skills and helped revitalize the rock genre during a time when it was struggling against the rise of punk and disco.

Why it matters

Van Halen's debut album was a game-changer for rock music, laying the foundation for the glam metal and hard rock genres that would dominate the 1980s. The album's success helped keep rock relevant and popular during a transitional period for the industry.

The details

While the album received mixed reviews upon its initial release, it went on to become a commercial success, reaching No. 19 on the Billboard 200 chart. Singles like "You Really Got Me," "Runnin' with the Devil," "Jamie's Cryin'," and "Ain't Talkin' About Love" became classic rock staples, and the instrumental track "Eruption" is widely regarded as one of the greatest guitar solos ever recorded.

  • Van Halen's self-titled debut album was released on February 10, 1978.
  • The album received Gold certification from the RIAA in May 1978.
  • The album earned its first Platinum certification in October 1978.
  • By August 1996, Van Halen had been certified Diamond for 10 million units sold.

The players

Van Halen

A legendary rock band that burst onto the national scene with their genre-defining debut album in 1978.

Eddie Van Halen

The virtuosic guitarist whose electrifying playing style was a key part of the band's success and influence.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“I tried playing exactly like some people, but I just couldn't. I think that's how my style developed--out of the mere fact I couldn't play like someone else. I had to do something. I had to come up with something myself.”

— Eddie Van Halen, Guitarist (Steven Rosen interview)

The takeaway

Van Halen's landmark debut album not only revitalized rock music in the late 1970s but also laid the groundwork for the glam metal and hard rock genres that would dominate the following decade. Eddie Van Halen's innovative guitar work and the band's high-energy, party-fueled sound became hugely influential, cementing Van Halen's status as one of the most important rock acts of all time.