I was saddened to hear about the passing (July 22, 2008) of Jazz Guitar great Joe Beck due to lung cancer. Joe was an amazing musician and guitarist who could play a myriad of styles while staying true to the spirit of Jazz. I never had the pleasure of meeting the man himself but I did have the wonderful opportunity of interviewing him for Jazz Guitar Life last August and while he was tired from his ordeals fighting cancer, he was in a good mood and enjoyed reminiscing about his long and full career.

And what a career it was! Starting in the early ’60’s and continuing until just a few months ago, with a couple of stops in between to kick back, farm a little and reflect, Joe kept on playing and searching for new ways to express himself on his instrument whether as a leader, sideman or studio-player. He could have easily rested on his laurels at any time but that wasn’t Joe. He kept on growing and developing as a musician and we are all thankful for that.

Joe Beck leaves behind a healthy body of work and I would recommend spending the time to look for anything Joe has put out as a leader, as well as his albums with Jimmy Bruno (Polarity), John Abercrombie (Coincidence) and Lee Barbour (Songs For Singing). Joe Beck will be missed. My sincere and deepest condolences go out to his family and friends. Rest in peace Joe.

ps: Steve Khan wrote a lovely good-bye to his friend which you can read here.