Steely Dan keyboardist Jim Beard dies aged 63 after 'sudden illness'

06 March 2024 , 19:57

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Jim Beard died at age 63

Jim Beard has died at the age of 63.

The musician reportedly died "from complications due to a sudden illness". Jim is reported to have died on Saturday, March 2 at a hospital in New York City, Deadline reports.

Jim had been a member of Steely Dan since 2008, and had also recently toured with the Eagles for their Long Goodbye tour. Jim performed with Steely Dan as recently as January 20.

He was a talented musician, composer, and songwriter with over 100 published compositions. His work transcended across creative fields, including recordings, books, orchestras, television, and movies. Jim's work was celebrated with true impact on American culture.

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He was a longtime member of Steely Dan

Major production companies, such as Sony Pictures, Paramount Pictures, Blue Note, Verve, Columbia, NBC, ABC, and CBS/Sony, have been known to use his work.

Additionally, Jim was a solo artist. While he had projects in major bands and companies, he also recorded six solo CDs. He is decorated with awards, including seven Grammy nominations.

His friend, Peter Erksine, wrote in memory alongside a photo: "Jim Beard, RIP. Pictured here with Eliane Elias in 1988. Jim was the glue and such a great presence on so many projects. I'm going to miss the man, his wit and his musical incisiveness. You made a difference, Jim."

He also had many projects outside of the groups he worked with

Another friend, Antonio Sanchez, wrote: I can not believe the great Jim Beard is gone. What an untimely loss. He was such a gentle soul and an insanely talented artist. This pic is just from last year when we recorded Mike Stern’s album which he was producing. Will miss you, dear Jim."

Music fans are heartbroken at the news. One wrote: "So sad to learn of his passing. He was such a unique and talented creator. Jim’s distinctive compositional voice influenced so many of us. RIP."

Another added: "Very sad, and so young. He was a great composer, and I was blessed to see them in Chicago at the Amphitheater."

A third wrote: "RIP Jim Beard. The steely Dan guitar chair gets all the attention but real ones know no one works harder than the lead keys guy. Jim made it seem effortless the dozens of times I saw him."

Alex West