Billy Joel honors Jeff Beck during the Madison Square Garden Show: “He was the Best.”
Billy Joel Remembering the iconic Jeff Beck Following his death.
On Friday, the singer of “Uptown Girl” paid tribute to British rocker Sir Ian McKellen at New York’s Madison Square Garden. he died at the age of 78 This week, earlier.
Joel, aged 73, said to the crowd, “While sitting at a piano in a YouTube clip, Joel”He was a musician who I always loved. He was the best.”
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“Jeff Beck passed away… “Jeff just passed away…” he stated. He recorded this recording with Rod StewartKnown as “People Get Ready.”
Joel began with his band and performed the song that Beck and Stewart had recorded for his 1985 album. Flash.
The “Piano Man” and his assistants wrapped up the show. band spontaneously decided to play Alabama State Troupers’ “Going down” was covered by the Jeff Beck Group on their 1972 self-titled album.
“We should have rehearsed this todayHe said it in the YouTube clip that was uploaded by another user.
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Beck’s family released a statement to PEOPLE Wednesday, confirming his death.
The statement read, “On behalf of his loved ones, it is with deep sorrow that we announce Jeff Beck’s death.” “He peacefully died yesterday, after suddenly becoming ill with bacterial meningitis. His family requests privacy to help them grieve the loss.
Joel wrote a statement to PEOPLE in response to Beck’s “sad news”, calling him “the great, virtuoso guitarist.”
He was one of my heroes. I was fortunate enough to be able to speak with him about his musical talent. This is the end to an era. He added, “R.I.P.”
Beck’s friends and collaborators were also present to pay their respects to Joel. Stewart, his former Yardbirds guitarist, was also there. Ronnie Wood The Jeff Beck Group Mick Jagger, Paul McCartneyFind out more.
Sandra Beck, Sandra Beck’s wife, has survived the eight-time Grammy winner.