Jeff Beck, one of the most iconic rock guitarists of the 1960s, has passed away at the age of 78. Beck’s representative confirmed in a statement that the legendary musician died after contracting an illness. He passed away peacefully on Tuesday, January 10th.
“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,” reads the statement, shared on Beck’s social media channels on Wednesday, January 11. “His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss.”
Born in England in 1944, Beck was known for his “urgent, in-your-face guitar.” He was so expressive that he didn’t need a singer, according to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Beck, who was a double Hall of Fame inductee, built his first guitar when he was 15 years old. He learned the instrument inside and out before mastering everything from heavy metal to jazz, the Hall of Fame remembers of the visionary artist.
Beck’s death is a huge loss to the music community, he was widely respected and admired for his talent, and his influence on the guitar and rock music will be remembered forever.
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