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Van Halen II

by Van Halen

Released: March 23, 1979

Hard rock, heavy metal

musicOnOff editorial

Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Breakthrough.

The Album

"Van Halen II" is the second studio album by the American rock band Van Halen, released in 1979. Building on the success of their self-titled debut album, "Van Halen II" further solidified the band's reputation for their high-energy, guitar-driven rock sound. The album features Eddie Van Halen's virtuosic guitar playing, Alex Van Halen's powerful drumming, Michael Anthony's solid bass lines, and David Lee Roth's charismatic vocals.

Stories and details

Interesting Facts

Tracks like "Dance the Night Away" and "Beautiful…

The album also includes the instrumental track "Spanish…

The album also includes the instrumental track "Spanish Fly," highlighting Eddie Van Halen's prowess on the guitar.

Watch and listen

Explore the Album

Van Halen - Van Halen II

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Then

Reception

"Van Halen II" received positive reviews from critics and was a commercial success, reaching multi-platinum status in the United States.

Now

Legacy

It helped establish Van Halen as one of the leading rock bands of the late 1970s and laid the groundwork for their continued success in the following decades.

Full background

The Complete Album Story

Tracks like "Dance the Night Away" and "Beautiful Girls" are known for their infectious hooks and party atmosphere, while songs like "Somebody Get Me a Doctor" and "Bottoms Up!" showcase the band's raw energy and musicianship. The album also includes the instrumental track "Spanish Fly," highlighting Eddie Van Halen's prowess on the guitar.

"Van Halen II" received positive reviews from critics and was a commercial success, reaching multi-platinum status in the United States. It helped establish Van Halen as one of the leading rock bands of the late 1970s and laid the groundwork for their continued success in the following decades.