Legendary Guitarist Jeff Beck Dead at 78

Legendary guitarist Jeff Beck has passed away. Beck passed away after contracting bacterial meningitis. He had just completed a tour with Johnny Depp. He was 78 years old.

Beck’s family issued the following statement:

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.

He rose to prominence with the Yardbirds and later fronted the Jeff Beck Group, Beck, Bogert & Appice. At the time he emerged, it was during a period of some epic guitarists. Beck was considered part of this group of guitarists including: Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page and Jimi Hendrix.

His style crossed a wide variety of genres including: hard rock, jazz, funky blues and even opera. In addition to his own work, he was a highly sought after studio musician. He collaborated with artists including: Luciano Pavarotti, Macy Gray, Chrissie Hynde, Joss Stone, Imelda May, Cyndi Lauper, Wynonna Judd and Buddy Guy.

Most recently he had been working with Depp. The two collaborated for the album 18, and were both touring in support of the album.

Beck is also a two-time inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame: first as a member of the Yardbirds (1992) and as a solo artist (2009).