cover of episode Best Of: Alex Van Halen / Painter Titus Kaphar

Best Of: Alex Van Halen / Painter Titus Kaphar

2024/11/2
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Fresh Air

Key Insights

Why did Alex Van Halen write the memoir 'Brothers'?

To honor his brother Eddie and their shared musical journey.

Why did the Van Halen family move to the United States?

To escape political turmoil in Indonesia and seek a better life.

Why did Eddie Van Halen collaborate with Michael Jackson on 'Beat It'?

To explore new musical opportunities and expand their reach.

Why did Titus Kaphar decide to turn his documentary into a feature film?

To provide a deeper exploration of his childhood and father-son dynamics.

Why did Titus Kaphar choose to make a film about his life?

To make his art more accessible and to explore generational healing.

Chapters

Alex Van Halen discusses the formation of the rock band Van Halen with his brother Eddie, their musical journey, and the wild ride of sex, drugs, and rock and roll.
  • Alex and Eddie formed Van Halen, which became a legendary rock band.
  • Their musical journey began with their jazz musician father and included notable performance antics.
  • Eddie Van Halen died of cancer in 2020.

Shownotes Transcript

Alex Van Halen has written a new memoir about forming the rock band Van Halen with his brother Eddie. It takes readers from their childhood to the wild ride of sex, drugs, and rock and roll. Eddie Van Halen died in 2020. Alex talks with Tonya Mosley about his grief and reflects on their relationship. **Also, artist Titus Kaphar talks about his new movie, Exhibiting Forgiveness, based on his life. It's about a celebrated painter whose world unravels when his estranged father suddenly resurfaces. Carolina Miranda reviews the new Netflix film *Pedro Paramo *Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoices)NPR Privacy Policy)