Ultimate Classic Rock Staff

Musician, who also played in supergroup Beck, Bogert & Appice, had been battling cancer.

Guitarist was reportedly planning to purchase Spanish-style home at the time of his death in 1970.

Their debut LP 'Climbing!' featured the signature, cowbell-heavy single "Mississippi Queen."

From veterans to newcomers, the year's best tracks reflect the times.

It was a year of monolithic rock albums and intimate singer-songwriter releases.

Guitarist suffered from multiple final issues while battling long-term cancer.

"Red Rocker Refuses to Fly 55 in Afterlife," reads Van Halen singer's newspaper-styled drawing.

"There are many of us who support Van and his endeavors to save live music; he is an inspiration," Clapton says.

They garner instant name recognition, of course, but also unreasonable expectations.

If you believe the legends, some spots have paranormal visitors not reflected in the capacity stats.