Legendary guitarist Jeff Beck passed away on Tuesday, January 10. He was 78.

“It is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s passing,” a statement released by his family reads. “After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday. His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss.”

Beck was one of the most influential rock guitarist of all time. He was a member of The Yardbirds and the founder of the Jeff Beck Group. He was also a two-time inductee into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, once with Jeff Beck Group and as a solo artist. Beck has won eight Grammys and was nominated 17 times throughout his career.

Beck joined The Yardbirds in 1965, as a replacement for Eric Clapton on the recommendation of fellow session musician Jimmy Page. He spent 20 months in the band, working on the 1966 album Roger the Engineer.

After being fired from The Yardbirds, Beck recorded a number of solo singles and then went on to form his own band, the Jeff Beck Group, featuring vocalist Rod Stewart, bassist Ronnie Wood and drummer Nicky Hopkins. The group released two albums together, 1968’s Truth and 1969’s Beck-Ola.

Beck recently wrapped up a tour in support of 18, his joint album with Johnny Depp.

(Photo: Shannon Kringen)

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