Grammy-award winning guitarist Jeff Beck has died at the age of 78. The musician, who rose to fame as part of the Yardbirds died 'peacefully' on Tuesday (January 10) after suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis.
He later formed the Jeff Beck group with Rod Stewart. He also performed alongside Johnny Depp in Manchester last year, at the O2 Apollo, as part of a UK tour.
The news of his passing was posted on the musician's official Twitter page on Wednesday night (January 11).
READ MORE Marvel, Netflix and Hollywood stars that are actually from Greater Manchester
A statement posted on the musician’s official Twitter page 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.”
The British musician rose to fame as part of the Yardbirds, where he replaced Eric Clapton, before forming the Jeff Beck group with Rod Stewart.
He was regarded as redefining force in guitar music in the 1960s, influencing movements like heavy metal and jazz-rock. Musician Gene Simmons called it 'heartbreaking news' adding: "No one played guitar like Jeff. Please get ahold of the first two Jeff Beck Group albums and behold greatness. RIP.”
As Black Sabbath guitarist Tony Iommi wrote on Twitter: "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."
Read the latest headlines here.
Read Next:
- Life in Manchester 20 years ago captured in throwback photos from 2003
- 11 things we did while looking through the Argos catalogue as a child
- 15 things you could do in 00s Manchester that you can't do now
- 12 photos show Stockport's lost stores at Merseyway shopping centre in 70s and 80s
- Manchester's streets, people and life 30 years ago in brilliant photos
