Steve Vai was a student of Eddie Van Halen and considered him a mentor and friend. He also incorporated some of Van Halen's signature techniques, such as tapping, whammy bar tricks, and harmonics, into his own virtuosic playing.
Joe Satriani was also a fan and friend of Eddie Van Halen and praised his innovation and creativity. He also used some of Van Halen's elements in his own guitar work, such as the tapping, dive bombs, and tone control.
Randy Rhoads was one of the first guitarists to challenge Eddie Van Halen's dominance in the early 1980s. He was influenced by Van Halen's speed, precision, and flair, but also added his own classical and neoclassical influences to create a distinctive style.
Kirk Hammett was another guitarist who grew up listening to and learning from Eddie Van Halen. He incorporated Van Halen's techniques, such as tapping, wah-wah, and distortion, into his own thrash metal style. He also acknowledged Van Halen's influence on his musical taste and attitude.
Zakk Wylde was also a fan of Eddie Van Halen and admired his skill and charisma. He blended Van Halen's style with his own heavy metal and southern rock influences, and also used similar guitar gear and effects, such as the MXR Phase 90 and the wah-wah pedal.