Lita Ford Says Eddie Van Halen Was a Great Inspiration to Her

Lita Ford has cited Van Halen guitarist Eddie Van Halen as a "great inspiration" to her, not just for his guitar skills but also for the advice he gave Ford early in her career.

Her comments come from rock photographer Neil Zlozower's upcoming book 'Eddie Van Halen,' (we're guessing you can figure out what it's about.) Perhaps one of the most intense contributions to the book's text comes from fellow guitarist Ford, who not only refers to the guitarist as "Edward" but says he was a "great inspiration to me" and christens him the "Les Paul of our day."

Those are big words, but they are certainly not without merit! It is endearing how Ford, late of The Runaways, shares stories of the breakfast EVH would serve up to her – Carnation Instant Breakfast. Just add milk! She also reveals how he gave her advice about playing guitar, since she was a chick in a dude's world.

Van Halen News Desk posted the essay Ford penned, which doesn't stop short of gushing about Edward! Here is part of her tribute:

We all know EVH is the Les Paul of today's world. We all know Edward changed the face of rock 'n' roll. But it's the person that he truly is that makes him so unique. He is an inspiration to every musician, because we all wanna be him, and some of us try real hard, but the reality of it is that there is only ONE Edward Van Halen!!! PERIOD! What makes him tick? Good question! But whatever it is, they honestly did break the mold after they made Edward!!! I love you, buddy friend! God bless you and your family! Thanks for rockin' my world!!!"