Jeff Beck passed away in 2023 at the age of 78 from bacterial meningitis, and the rock community was shocked to hear the news, including Deep Purple and Rainbow guitarist Ritchie Blackmore, who is a big fan of Jeff’s guitar playing. In an interview with Rock of Nations, he talked about how special Beck was and recalled the shock of hearing about his death.
Ritchie Blackmore talks about Jeff Beck’s talent
“ Jeff was a great guitar player. That was a big blow, him going, I mean, he was vegetarian and he didn’t take drugs particularly or anything. I was very shocked to hear about him dying that way. That was terrible.”
“He had a very special way of playing. It was so different from anybody. I always used to go and see him play, because I found him very refreshing. And he would always put himself down. I’d say, ‘How is your latest record, Jeff?’ And he’d go, ‘Oh, it’s a lot of rubbish.’ And he would always say that about anything he put out. He was always reaching for something he couldn’t find,” Ritchie Blackmore said (Transcribed by Blabbermouth).
After Jeff Beck‘s death, in 2023, Blackmore released a statement, recalling he had the chance to meet him when they were still session players. “First met Jeff Beck around 64-65 and it was a session where we were both playing guitars and Jimmy Page was producing.”
“I couldn’t believe how incredible he was, not only with his technique but his sound too. I became a fan of his ever since. He could reach up into the stars and make magic with his playing. His choice of notes were always absolutely perfect. This whole thing is a shock. We shall always remember Jeff as the best rock and roll player,” Ritchie Blackmore said.