British guitar legend Jeff Beck dies at 78 

Legendary guitarists Jeff Beck, 78 – one of the greatest rock guitarists of all time, has died. 

After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he passed away peacefully, his family’s statement read. 

He gained notoriety as a member of the Yardbirds, where he took Eric Clapton’s place. He eventually joined the Jeff Beck Group with Rod Stewart. 

Heavy metal, jazz-rock, and even punk were all affected by the way he transformed guitar music in the 1960s through his tone, presence, and—most importantly—volume.

“On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of Jeff Beck’s passing,” the statement said.

“After suddenly contracting bacterial meningitis, he peacefully passed away yesterday. His family ask for privacy while they process this tremendous loss.”

Family statement via Twitter

When he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for the second time in 2009, Beck – said: “I play the way I do because it allows me to come up with the sickest sounds possible.”

“That’s the point now, isn’t it? I don’t care about the rules.

“In fact, if I don’t break the rules at least 10 times in every song, then I’m not doing my job properly.”