New Delhi: The Yardbirds, a 1960s rock and roll band that launched the career of British guitar superstar Jeff Beck, who later had a successful solo career, has passed away, according to his official website. He was 78. According to reports, Beck, a guitar prodigy and inventor who was also one of the greatest rhythm and blues interpreters in the world, passed away 'peacefully' after being ill.
"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," a statement on the British musician's website said.
As soon as the news of the late musician's death broke, popular celebrities took to their social media handles to pay tributes to the music legend.
Guitarist Jimmy Page hailed the musician as one who "could channel music from the ethereal." Offering his tribute to the late musician, Jimmy wrote, "The six stringed Warrior is no longer here for us to admire the spell he could weave around our mortal emotions. Jeff could channel music from the ethereal. His technique unique. His imaginations apparently limitless. Jeff I will miss you along with your millions of fans," Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, who was also a Yardbirds bandmate and close friend of Beck, said on Instagram.
Singer Paul Young shared the statement announcing Jeff Beck's death. Offering his tribute to the musician and condolences to his family, Paul wrote, "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."
"Rest in peace to the GREATEST of them all: Jeff Beck!!!!"
Singer 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."
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