Legendary Steely Dan Keyboardist Jim Beard Dies At 63

Legendary Steely Dan keyboardist Jim Beard passed away this week at the age of 63 due to complications from an illness. No further information was released.

Jim Beard, a Grammy-winning keyboardist, composer and member of Steely Dan since 2008, died Saturday in a New York hospital of complications from a sudden illness

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/music-news/jim-beard-dead-steely-dan-1235844833/

Born in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, in August 1960, Beard was also known for his solo work in jazz music, as well as his collaborations with jazz legends like Wayne Shorter and John McLaughlin.

Jim joined Steely Dan in 2008.

Throughout his career, Jim published more than 100 compositions, which were used in movies, television, and radio.Beard composed pieces for companies such as Sony Pictures, Paramount Pictures, Blue Note, NBC, ABC, and CBS.

Jim was nominated for seven Grammy Awards throughout his career and won in 2007 as a featured performer on “Some Skunk Funk” with the Brecker Brothers.

Beard released his first solo album in 1990, which was titled “Song of the Sun,” and went on to release a total of six albums in his career. His final solo album, titled “Show of Hands,” was released in 2013.

Many musicians have mourned Beards passing.

jazz drummer Peter Erskine writing: “Jim Beard, RIP … 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.”

Drummer and composer 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 … Will miss you, dear Jim.”

https://www.theguardian.com/music/2024/mar/06/jim-beard-death-steely-dan-keyboardist

Born in Philadelphia, Jim began playing the piano at the age of seven. He toured with the American Youth Jazz Orchestra and later pursued studies in jazz music at Indiana University.

Jim is survived by his son, Victor, daughter Caitlin, his mother Sarah, brother Bill, and his sister Nancy.

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