Jeff Beck, Guitar Virtuoso, Dead at 78
Photo Credit: Dino Perrucci
Jeff Beck, the celebrated guitarist known for performing alongside British rock staples the Yardbirds and the self-titled Jeff Beck Group, has passed away. According to a statement issued by Beck’s representatives, the musician died on Tuesday, Jan. 10, after contracting bacterial meningitis. Beck was 78.
The announcement which confirmed the artist’s passing was issued on Wednesday afternoon, Jan. 11, and read: “On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s passing. After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday. His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss.”
Beck is often considered one of the greatest guitarists of all time, known for iconic riffs and his famously insured fingers and thumbs. An innovator and trailblazer, Beck pioneered elements of jazz-rock, experimenting heavily with the use of fuzz and distortion effects, which paved the way for heavier subgenres such as metal and psych-rock.
Beck was born in Wallington, England, in 1944 and took up the guitar during his youth–enamored by the instrument. The musician’s career took off alongside the Yardbirds when Beck stepped in and succeeded Eric Clapton in the ensemble–on the recommendation of Jimmy Page.
The artist left the group after a short but significant 20-month tenure and went on to form The Jeff Beck Group with Rod Stewart, garnering success throughout the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, securing Beck’s title as a prominent bandleader and soloist.
During his career, Beck delivered 17 studio albums, earned eight Grammy awards, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice–as a part of the Yardbirds and as a solo artist. In addition, he collaborated with everyone from Mick Jagger to Stevie Wonder and many other talented acts.
Beck is survived by his wife, Sandra.
