Unfortunately, Joe Beck passed away July 22, 2008 of complications from lung cancer.
Joe will be remembered by musicians and music lovers forever.
He will remembered as the amazing guitarist who was in fact, the first guitarist to play for Miles Davis. He will be remembered as the pioneering guitarist who helped push jazz into the fusion age with peers such as Michael Brecker and David Sanborn. He will be remembered as the studio ace guitarist who did countless sessions for artists like James Brown and Paul Simon. He will be remembered as the inventive guitarist who designed and was the undisputed master of the Alto guitar. And he will be remembered as the virtuoso guitarist who recorded classic albums as a leader such as "Relaxin" and "Just Friends."
However, Joe's musical influence went well beyond the guitar. Joe was a proficient composer, arranger and producer as well; and his name can be found under those credentials for some of music's biggest names including Gloria Gaynor, Esther Phlllips and Frank Sinatra.
Most importantly, though, Joe will be remembered as a wonderful husband to his wife, Marsi, a dedicated father, and a true friend. It was in this arena that he gave his greatest and most unforgettable performances. And being the virtuoso that he was in all his endeavors, he made it look so easy.
Joe Beck
