Legendary English guitarist Jeff Beck has passed away at the age of 78.
The iconic musician and rock star succumbed to his battle with bacterial meningitis and passed away “peacefully” on Tuesday according to his agent.
The tragic news was also confirmed by Beck’s family who shared a picture of the former Yardbirds star on Twitter.
The announcement 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 widely recognized as one of the best guitarists of all time. During his decades-long career, the rock star won eight Grammy Awards. In 1992, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Yardbirds. Later, in 2009, he was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a solo performer.
The sad news comes just weeks after Beck and Johnny Depp concluded their tour to promote their debut album 18.
“When Johnny and I started playing together, it really ignited our youthful spirit and creativity. We would joke about how we felt 18 again, so that just became the album title too,” the musician previously said of his collaboration with Depp.
Following Beck’s passing, social media was flooded with tributes to the late musician.
“I can’t express how saddened I am to hear of @JeffBeckMusic’s passing. What a terrible loss for his family, friends & his many fans. It was such an honor to have known Jeff & an incredible honor to have had him play on my most recent album, #PatientNumber9,” Black Sabbath vocalist Ozzy Osbourne said.
“His technique unique. His imaginations apparently limitless. Jeff I will miss you along with your millions of fans. Jeff Beck Rest in Peace,” Led Zeppelin founder Jimmy Page wrote.
Co-lead singer of Kiss, Gene Simmons, added: “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.”
Our thoughts are with Jeff’s family, friends, and fans during this challenging time.
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