Classic Rock News

Guitarist Jeff Beck continues to be remembered on social media, with artists like Rod Stewart, ZZ Top’s Billy F. Gibbons and more paying tribute to the rock legend, who passed away Wednesday at the age of 78. 

“Jeff Beck was on another planet. He took me and Ronnie Wood to the USA in the late 60s in his band the Jeff Beck Group and we haven’t looked back since,” Stewart shared alongside a picture of him and Beck together. “He was one of the few guitarists that when playing live would actually listen to me sing and respond. Jeff, you were the greatest, my man . Thank you for everything.” 

Former Yardbirds member Paul Samwell-Smith shared his tribute via the Cat Stevens/Yusuf Twitter account, offering, “What a genius. We wrote Shapes of Things together and Jeff had a blank 16 bars for a solo. He not only played an extraordinary solo, but changed the nature of guitar playing ever after.” #JeffBeck.”

And ZZ Top’s Billy F. Gibbons shared, “I met Jeff Beck when I was 17 and I was glad to know a guy like that, a guy who was able to show me how this guitar playing thing should be approached and that’s still very much the case. Jeff’s was a wondrous soul and we already miss him terribly but take comfort in the fact that he’ll be with us forever. Hi Ho Silver Lining!”

Other tributes include:

Robert Plant – “Jeff always appeared timeless, ever evolving. He embraced project after project with limitless energy and enthusiasm. He surfaced in an extraordinary time…He took place side by side with virtuosos of the period…His gift was enormous. He was funny, challenging and eager.”

U2’s The Edge – “Jeff Beck was punk rock before punk existed and one of the most inventive guitar players of all time. He set a very high bar for all of us who followed. His legend will live on.”

Alice Cooper – “When I was 16 years old, The Spiders, who became the original Alice Cooper band, opened for the Yardbirds. That night I experienced the greatest guitar player I had ever heard. Half a century later Jeff Beck is still the greatest guitarist, PERIOD….”

Heart‘s Ann Wilson – “Travel on, Master Jeff! Find new harmonics. We’ll miss you.” “

Billy Joel – “I just heard the sad news that the great virtuoso guitarist, Jeff Beck, has died. He was one of my heroes. I was fortunate to meet him recently and I’m very grateful now that I was able to tell him how much I admired his musical skill. This is the end of an era.”

Aerosmith’s Joe Perry – “Jeff Beck was the Salvador Dali of guitar, to see him play was to hear the ultimate 6 string alchemist create magic in a world of its own. With his passing, the world is a poorer place. Our heartfelt sympathies go out to Sandra. We share your sorrow.”

E Street Band member Steve Van Zandt – “RIP Jeff Beck. Having trouble processing this. Not only was he a major influence, and his genius an infinite source of joy my entire lifetime, he was in great spirits when we spoke a few weeks ago having done a flawless show with Johnny the night before at the Capitol. Unreal.”

Pearl Jam’s Mike McCready – “Saddened to hear Jeff Beck has passed away. I was lucky to see him once and I stood in awe of his genius. Thank you, Jeff, for being amazing to us guitar players…”

Billy Idol – “Sad news #JeffBeck passed on today …I saw him with Beck Bogart & Appice supporting Lou Reed in the UK in ‘72 RIP …glad I was alive to hear him play….sublime…”

Buddy Guy – “The loss of our friend Jeff Beck is crushing. All our love and prayers go out to his family, his friends, and his fans around the world. Until we meet again, Jeff. – Team BG.”

Joe Satriani – “Jeff Beck was a genius, a stunning original. He was an astounding guitar player with more ways to make you go, ‘WTF was that?’ than anybody else. He was profoundly talented, and never stopped innovating on the instrument. R.I.P. Jeff.”

Brian Wilson – “I’m so sad to hear about Jeff Beck passing. Jeff was a genius guitar player, and me and my band got to see it close up when we toured with him in 2013. One of the highlights we did was ‘Danny Boy’ – we both loved that song. Love & Mercy to Jeff’s family.”

Rick Springfield – “The great Jeff Beck has taken his genius and gone home. My guitar idol since age 15. For the uninitiated, check out his amazing work on (where do I begin) Roger Waters ‘Amused to Death’. His gift was impossible to copy and won’t be repeated. Thankful for huge legacy. God speed JB”

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After a 50-year battle, John Fogerty has regained control of the worldwide publishing rights to his music with Creedence Clearwater Revival.

Unlike artists who have sold their catalogs in recent years, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famer has been able to purchase, for an undisclosed sum, a majority interest in his rights to CCR songs, which encompass more than 65 songs, including classics like “Proud Mary,” “Fortunate Son,” “Bad Moon Rising” and more.

Fogerty initially gave up his royalties on the CCR songs to Saul Zaentz’s Fantasy Records in 1980 in order to get out of his deal with the label. In 2004, when Concord purchased Fantasy Records, they reinstated and increased Fogerty’s royalties, which he hadn’t previously been receiving.

Concord still owns the CCR master recordings and will continue to look after Fogerty’s publishing interests, at least for a limited time.

“I’m really kind of still in shock,” 77-year-old Fogerty tells Billboard. “I’m the dad [of these songs]. I created them. They never should have been taken away in the first place.”

He adds, “The happiest way to look at it is, yeah, it isn’t everything. It’s not a 100% win for me, but it’s sure better than it was.”

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Jeff Beck’s sudden death Wednesday at the age of 78 was shocking to many. That’s particularly true for actor/rocker Johnny Depp, who was a close friend of the guitar legend and recent collaborator on the album 18, which was released this summer.

A source tells People that Depp is “totally devastated” by Beck’s death, noting the actor “was by Jeff’s bedside,” as were “some other rock stars,” when he passed away.

“They had a really tight friendship, they were extremely close, and he got even closer over this past summer when they were touring together,” the insider shares. “The sickness came on really quickly and it all deteriorated rapidly in the last couple weeks.” 

The source adds, “Johnny is still processing this news. He’s devastated.”

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As previously reported, rehearsals began this week for Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band’s upcoming tour, and some Bruce fans just can’t wait until the trek kicks off next month to hear them perform.

The band has been rehearsing at the Vogel, part of the Count Basie Center of the Arts in Red Bank, New Jersey, and the Asbury Park Press reports fans have started to gather outside to try to get a listen to what the band has been working on.

“There is no other place I would rather be right now [than] in Red Bank at the Vogel,” Joyce Carswell, of Asbury Park, tells the outlet. “I don’t feel the cold — I’m so excited and pumped. They’re rehearsing for the world tour, what’s more exciting than this?”

Members of the E Street Band were spotted at the venue, and Bruce and his wife, Patti Scialfa, even acknowledged waiting fans with a wave. And while the sound of the rehearsals isn’t exactly clear, fans were able to distinguish what songs were being played. 

Some fans are hoping to actually see Bruce onstage this weekend. The annual Light of Day WinterFest show, which raises research money for Parkinson’s and other related diseases, is happening Saturday at Basie’s Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre. While The Boss is not officially on the bill, he has made surprise appearances at 12 of the last 21 Light of Day shows. 

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band’s tour, their first since 2016, kicks off February 1 in Tampa, Florida, with U.S. dates running through April 14 in Newark, New Jersey.

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Guitarist Jeff Beck‘s death Tuesday from bacterial meningitis at the age of 78 was certainly a shock. Upon hearing the news, several artists, including many of his fellow rockers, took to social media to pay tribute to the rock legend.

Beck contributed to two songs on Ozzy Osbourne’s Grammy-nominated album Patient Number 9, and Ozzy shared a tribute on Instagram Wednesday: “I can’t express how saddened I am to hear of @JeffBeckOfficial’s passing. What a terrible loss for his family, friends and his many fans,” adding, “It was such an honor to have known Jeff and an incredible honor to have had him play on my most recent album, Patient Number 9. I’ll remember him fondly. Long live #JeffBeck.” 

Rolling Stones guitarist Ronnie Wood shared, “Now Jeff has gone, I feel like one of my band of brothers has left this world, and I’m going to dearly miss him. I’m sending much sympathy to Sandra, his family, and all who loved him. I want to thank him for all our early days together in Jeff Beck Group, conquering America.” Mick Jagger added, “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.”

And fellow guitar great Jimmy Page, who was Beck’s former Yardbirds bandmate, offered, “His technique unique. His imaginations apparently limitless. Jeff I will miss you along with your millions of fans. Jeff Beck Rest in Peace.” 

Among the other tributes:

Pink Floyd‘s David Gilmour – “I am devastated to hear the news of the death of my friend and hero Jeff Beck, whose music has thrilled and inspired me and countless others for so many years. Polly‘s and my thoughts go out to his lovely wife Sandra. He will be forever in our hearts.”

KISS‘ Paul Stanley – “WOW. What awful news. Jeff Beck, one of the all time guitar masters has died. From The Yardbirds and The Jeff Beck Group on, he blazed a trail impossible to follow. Play on now and forever. @jeffbeckmusic.”

KISS’ Gene Simmons called the news of Beck’s death “heartbreaking,” adding, “No one played guitar like Jeff. Please get ahold of the first two Jeff Beck Group albums and behold greatness. RIP.”

Black Sabbath’s Tony Iommi  – “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.”

Sabbath’s Geezer Butler – “Shocked to hear of the sudden death of Jeff Beck. Truly one of the greats. First time I saw him was in 1966 with the Yardbirds. Brilliant, unique guitarist. RIP.”

Sammy Hagar – “Absolutely one of my favorite guitarist of all time! The ‘Truth’ album changed my life. As a singer and guitarist, I wanted to be Jeff Beck and Rod Stewart rolled into one— we all did. What a loss. We will all miss Jeff. My love and condolences to his family and loved ones.”

The Kinks‘ Dave Davies – “I’m heartbroken he looked in fine shape to me. Playing great he was in great shape. I’m shocked and bewilderedDeepest sympathy to his wife friends close ones I’m bewildered Jeff Beck it don’t make sense I don’t get it. He was a good friend and a great guitar player.”

Paul Young – “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 condolence to his family & friends RIP.”

Spandau Ballet’s Gary Kemp – “An absolute god of guitar. No one can replace him. From rock to soul to jazz he was the greatest player in all genres. Unique. Such awful news but thank you Jeff for all you gave us”

Whitesnake’s David Coverdale – “Oh, My Heart…RIP, Jeff…I miss you already…💔💔💔💔💔”

Steve Hackett – “Devastating news about the loss of much loved, influential guitar legend Jeff Beck. He made the electric guitar sing… a powerful influence on myself and many others.”

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It sounds like The Rolling Stones may be treating fans to new music this year. In a belated New Year’s message posted to Instagram, Keith Richards gave fans a little insight into what he hopes will be happening with his band this year. 

“Hi guys, here we are again,” he shared in a short video. “Wishing you all a belated Happy New Year.” He then added, “And there’s some new music on its way and hopefully we’ll get to see you. Let’s keep our fingers crossed.”

In the meantime, Stones fans are at least getting a new release next month. The Stones’ new live album and DVD, GRRR Live!, recorded during their guest-filled December 15, 2012, concert at Newark’s Prudential Center, is set to drop February 10. It features guest appearances by such big names as Bruce Springsteen, Lady Gaga, John Mayer, Gary Clark Jr., Mick Taylor and The Black Keys.

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The rock world has just lost another legend. Guitarist Jeff Beck passed away Tuesday from bacterial meningitis. He was 78.

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

Beck came to prominence as a member of the Yardbirds, but went on to have a successful solo career, fronting his own Jeff Beck Group. He is a two-time member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, having been inducted in 1992 as a member of the Yardbirds and again in 2009 for his solo work.

He earned six Grammys for Best Rock Instrumental Performance, plus additional wins for Best Pop Instrumental Performance and Best Pop Collaboration with vocals. He was honored with the British Academy’s Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Contribution to British Music in 2014. Rolling Stone ranked him in its top five of the 100 Greatest Guitarists. 

Just last year Beck recorded new music with rocker Johnny Depp, releasing the collaborative album 18 in July. He also appeared on two tracks of Ozzy Osbourne’s Grammy-nominated record Patient Number 9, including the title track, which has earned him another Grammy nod.

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The rock world has just lost another legend. Guitarist Jeff Beck passed away Tuesday from bacterial meningitis. He was 78.

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

Beck came to prominence as a member of the Yardbirds, but went on to have a successful solo career, fronting his own Jeff Beck Group. He is a two-time member of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, having been inducted in 1992 as a member of the Yardbirds and again in 2009 for his solo work.

He earned six Grammys for Best Rock Instrumental Performance, plus additional wins for Best Pop Instrumental Performance and Best Pop Collaboration with vocals. He was honored with the British Academy’s Ivor Novello Award for Outstanding Contribution to British Music in 2014. Rolling Stone ranked him in its top five of the 100 Greatest Guitarists. 

Just last year Beck recorded new music with rocker Johnny Depp, releasing the collaborative album 18 in July. He also appeared on two tracks of Ozzy Osbourne’s Grammy-nominated record Patient Number 9, including the title track, which has earned him another Grammy nod.

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Pink Floyd’s classic album The Dark Side of the Moon is celebrating its 50th anniversary in March, and a new book is being released to commemorate the occasion.

The album-sized book The Dark Side Of The Moon will feature 129 rare and unseen backstage and onstage photographs shot between 1972 and 1975, while the band was touring the album. Photographers contributing to the book include Storm Thorgerson, Jill Furmanovsky, Aubrey Powell, Storm Thorgerson and Peter Christopherson.

The book will also include U.K. rock writer Chris Charlesworth’s Melody Maker review of the band’s 1972 Wembley show, plus a complete list of Dark Side of the Moon tour dates. It will also delve into how the album’s iconic artwork was created.

Published by Thames and Hudson, the book is set to be released March 7 in the U.S., just a few days after the actual 50th anniversary of the album’s release. Fans can preorder it here.

Pink Floyd released The Dark Side of the Moon on March 1, 1973. It has gone on to be the band’s most commercially successful album, having been certified 15-times Platinum. In 2012 it was selected for preservation in the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress.

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Bob Dylan is set to drop Bob Dylan Fragments – Time Out of Mind Sessions (1996-1997): The Bootleg Series Vol. 17 later this month, and he’s giving fans another taste of the set.

The rocker just dropped “Not Dark Yet (Version 1),” which is featured on the second disc of outtakes and alternate versions of tracks. He previously shared a version of “Love Sick” recorded January 14, 1997, at Criteria Studios.

Bob Dylan Fragments – Time Out of Mind Sessions (1996-1997): The Bootleg Series Vol. 17 is set to drop January 27 and will be the final installment in Dylan’s Bootleg Series. The set will be released in a variety of formats, including a deluxe five-disc or 10-LP, 12-inch vinyl edition. There will also be a two-disc/four-LP highlights edition.

Dylan released Time Out of Mind, his 30th album, in September 1997. The album went on to win the Grammy for Album of the Year in 1998, along with Grammys for Best Contemporary Folk Album and Best Male Rock Vocal Performance for “Cold Irons Bounds.”

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