Jeff Beck

Jeff Beck, regarded as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, died Tuesday at age 78.

According to Beck’s official Twitter account, he died after “suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis.”

“On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s passing. … His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss,” the tweet noted.

Beck rose to fame with The Yardbirds in the 1960s, with the group producing hits such as “For Your Love.” He went on to a successful solo career, winning eight Grammy Awards. Beck was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice, as both a member of The Yardbirds and as a solo artist. Rolling Stone magazine ranked him No. 5 on its list of “100 Greatest Guitarists.”

Tributes from the music world poured in following news of Beck’s death.

Rolling Stones founder Mick Jagger tweeted, “With the death of Jeff Beck we have lost a wonderful man and one of the greatest guitar players in the world. We will all miss him so much.”

Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi wrote, “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”

Kiss founder Gene Simmons tweeted, “Heartbreaking news to report the late, great Jeff Back has sadly passed. No one played guitar like Jeff. Please get ahold of the first two Jeff Beck Group albums and behold greatness. RIP.”

 

Pink Floyd guitarist David Gilmour wrote, “I am devastated to hear the news of the death of my friend and hero Jeff Beck, whose music has thrilled and inspired me and countless others for so many years.”

Singer-songwriter Stephen Bishop tweeted, “My condolences to Jeff Beck’s family, friends and fans. He was a phenomenal guitar player.”

Guitarist Rick Springfield wrote, “The great Jeff Beck has taken his genius and gone home. My guitar idol since age 15.”

[Photo credit: Jeff Beck Music]

About Arthur Weinstein

Arthur spends his free time traveling around the U.S. to sporting events, state and national parks, and in search of great restaurants off the beaten path.