The son of Eddie Van Halen has confirmed that the rock legend has died at the age of 65 after a long battle with throat cancer.

The iconic guitarist - main songwriter and founder of Van Halen - revealed last year that he had been battling the disease in secret since 2014.

The rocker had suffered numerous health problems over the years, including alcohol and drug addiction, and overcame tongue cancer 18 years ago.

In a statement, his son Wolf said: "I can't believe I'm having to write this, but my father, Edward Lodewijk Van Halen, has lost his long and arduous battle with cancer this morning.

"He was the best father I could ever ask for. Every moment I've shared with him on and off stage was a gift.

"My heart is broken and I don't think I'll ever fully recover from this loss.

"I love you so much, Pop."

Formed in 1972, Van Halen - best known for their hit 'Jump' - went on to become one of the best-selling groups of all time, with 56 million records sold in the US alone.