Jim Beard, keyboardist for Steely Dandied at age 63, according to several reports.
Beard, a musician also known for his collaborations with jazz legends including Pat Metheny, John McLaughlin and Wayne Shorter, died Saturday in a New York hospital, Deadline. reportsquoting a Beard representative.
According to the representative, Beard died from complications due to a sudden illness, the outlet reported.
Born in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, in 1960, Beard moved to New York in 1985 to pursue his music career. Since then, he has toured worldwide with various musicians and recorded with artists in a wide range of musical styles. said.
Throughout his career, Beard has published more than 100 compositions appearing on recordings by McLaughlin, Michael Brecker and other musicians as well as in books including The New Real Book. In addition to his appearances with the Metropole Orkest, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Beard has performed at various festivals throughout the United States and in countries including Canada, France, the Netherlands and Japan.
Beard's musical productions and compositions have been nominated for several Grammy Awards. Additionally, he was one of the featured artists on the live album Some Skunk Funk, which won two Grammys in 2007.
In 2008, Beard joined the American rock band Steely Dan as a keyboardist. His last performance with the group took place on January 20 in Phoenix, Arizona, reports Deadline.
Beard is survived by his two children, Victor and Caitlin; his mother, Sarah; his brother, Bill Beard; and his sister, Nancy Canale.
Many musicians mourned Beard's death, including jazz drummer Peter Erskine. in writing: “Jim Beard, RIP…Jim was the glue and such a great presence on so many projects. I will miss this man, his spirit and his musical insight. You made a difference, Jim.
Drummer and composer Antonio Sánchez wrote: “I can't believe the great Jim Beard is gone. What an untimely loss. He was such a gentle soul and an incredibly talented artist… I will miss you, dear Jim.
Meanwhile, saxophonist and producer Ben Wendel wrote: “Thanks for everything Jim Beard. You were a musical giant and an inspiration to so many. I'm incredibly grateful to have had the chance to spend time with you and get a small glimpse of your genius.