British guitar legend Jeff Beck died on Tuesday at the age of 78, after “suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis,” his family said.
“On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s passing,” the guitarist’s family said in an announcement posted to social media on Wednesday.
“After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday,” the statement further explained. “His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss.”
Beck’s sudden death comes as a surprise to many, as he was recently seen performing a series of shows in England, alongside his longtime friend, actor Johnny Depp, after the Pirates of the Caribbean star’s victory over Amber Heard in the United States.
The guitar legend, who rose to fame in the 1960s with the English rock band The Yardbirds, is considered “one of the greatest guitarists of all time,” the Hollywood Reporter noted.
Beck holds the record for the most Grammys for Best Rock Instrumental Performance, with six wins. He has also been won Best Pop Instrumental Performance, and was inducted twice to The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
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Condolences poured in on social media, following the announcement of Beck’s death.
“A sad day for music,” guitarist Nick Perri wrote. “The Jeff Back Group LP, opening with Ice Cream Cakes was the first blues rock album i ever heard. It had a tremendous impact on me. Still does. RIP to a legend amongst legends.”
“I’m completely gutted, a true guitar genius and a sweet man,” guitarist Davey Johnstone commented. “Love and sympathy to his family.”
I was totally shocked to hear the very sad news of Jeff Beck’s passing. Jeff was such a nice person and an outstanding iconic, genius guitar player – there will never be another Jeff Beck. His playing was very special & distinctively brilliant! He will be missed. RIP Jeff -Tony pic.twitter.com/0mn2gtTj5Z
— Tony Iommi (@tonyiommi) January 11, 2023
Jeff Beck, one of the greatest guitarists of all time, has died. He was 78.
He won eight Grammys and ranked fifth on Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists, and influenced everyone – literally everyone – that came after him.
He will be sadly missed. pic.twitter.com/HLvteUuSqs— Eric Alper 🎧 (@ThatEricAlper) January 11, 2023
Devastated to hear of the sudden and tragic death of legendary guitarist Jeff Beck. He was loved by everyone in the know; the guitarists guitarist! My condolences to his family & friends RIP. 😢 pic.twitter.com/OcCv1jSNvx
— Paul Young (@PaulYoungParlez) January 11, 2023
I’m heartbroken he looked in fine shape to me. Playing great he was in great shape. I’m shocked and bewilderedDeepest sympathy to his wife friends close ones I’m bewildered Jeff Beck it don’t make sense I don’t get it. He was a good friend and a great guitar player
— Dave Davies (@davedavieskinks) January 11, 2023
Rest in peace to the GREATEST off them all: Jeff Beck!!!!
— Bill Burr (@billburr) January 11, 2023
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