Was Jeff Beck the most underrated guitarist of his generation?
Sadly, we received word that legendary guitarist Jeff Beck has died after a short illness at age seventy-eight. It’s not shocking to hear this kind of news anymore; it’s happened all too often with many musicians of his era.
In the last few hours since the news broke, we have seen accolades for him from his fellow musicians and fans. The word legend certainly fits when you add together the music, the peer respect, his fandom and the many awards for his work.
In spite of this, I maintain that Beck was among the most underrated guitarists of the classic rock generation.
Let’s compare his popularity to his guitar compadres. You’ll always hear more talk about Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Keith Richards and Peter Townshend. Beck was certainly the equal of all of them but he never played in a band that sold huge amounts of records such as Cream, Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones or The Who. Beck stayed true to his vision of guitar and music. That wasn’t nearly as profitable as the music of some of his contemporaries. UNDERRATED!
Beck’s music, while technically spectacular, wasn’t as easily accessible as the others I mentioned. If you’re doing albums of instrumental guitar-centric songs, the listener has to make a concerted effort to get involved in the tunes. It certainly wasn’t easy listening music or songs to have in the background while you’re doing something else. UNDERRATED!
As for his live shows, twice in the last ten years, I’ve had tickets to a Jeff Beck concert. Both times he was the opening act. First to ZZ Top, then to Buddy Guy. I’m fine with both of those acts but no way should Beck be the opener to either of them. He was a true headliner all the way. As I said, UNDERRATED!
We’ve again lost one of the greats. However, Jeff Beck will live on in records and in our memories. Truly a great, underrated performer.
I suppose because of the influence of those I hung around with at the time, I thought Jeff Beck was huge. In retrospect you are right though, about a lot less buzz. Like Rory Gallagher, who unfortunately died young, and of whom many appear to know little despite his talent. Looking back I’m in awe of the gift of the music we enjoyed.