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Jeff Beck was born on June 24, 1944, in Wallington, England, was one of rock music’s most respected and innovative guitarists. His journey in music began in earnest when he joined The Yardbirds in the 1960s, a seminal group that also boasted guitar legends such as Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page. After his time with The Yardbirds, Beck formed The Jeff Beck Group in 1967, which featured Rod Stewart on vocals and Ron Wood on bass. This lineup was pivotal in shaping the hard rock and heavy blues styles that characterized the late 1960s and early 1970s rock scenes.
Beck’s solo career took off with the release of his album Truth in 1968, followed by Beck-Ola in 1969. His career spanned over five decades during which he released 17 studio albums, including seminal works like Blow by Blow (1975) and Wired (1976), both of which are considered landmarks in the fusion genre. Beck also released several live albums, notably Jeff Beck with the Jan Hammer Group Live (1977), and numerous compilations that highlighted key moments from his extensive career. His music continuously evolved, touching on genres ranging from blues and jazz to electronica and rockabilly.
Throughout his illustrious career, Jeff Beck received numerous accolades, including eight Grammy Awards, primarily in the Best Rock Instrumental Performance category. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame twice: once with The Yardbirds in 1992 and again as a solo artist in 2009. Beck passed away on January 10, 2023, but his influence endures, shaping guitarists across multiple generations with his pioneering techniques, versatility, and the profound emotional depth of his music. His ability to transcend genres and constantly innovate, all while maintaining high technical skill, cements his enduring legacy in the music industry.
JEFF BECK STUDIO ALBUMS
Truth
Released: August 1968
Truth is the debut solo album by Jeff Beck, recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London between May and June 1968. It established Jeff Beck as a pioneering musician in the blues rock genre. The album features Rod Stewart on vocals, Ronnie Wood on bass, and Mick Waller on drums, with contributions from Jimmy Page on guitar for “Beck’s Bolero.” Produced by Mickie Most, the album reached No. 15 on the US Billboard 200 charts.
CD Track Listings:
- “Shapes of Things” – 3:22
- “Let Me Love You” – 4:44
- “Morning Dew” – 4:40
- “You Shook Me” – 2:33
- “Ol’ Man River” – 4:01
- “Greensleeves” – 1:50
- “Rock My Plimsoul” – 4:13
- “Beck’s Bolero” – 2:54
- “Blues Deluxe” – 7:33
- “I Ain’t Superstitious” – 4:53
Beck-Ola
Released: June 1969
Beck-Ola was recorded at De Lane Lea Studios, London, in April 1969. It continued to build on the heavy blues rock foundation laid by Truth. The album featured Rod Stewart on vocals, Ronnie Wood on bass, Nicky Hopkins on piano, and Tony Newman on drums. Produced by Mickie Most, it peaked at No. 15 on the US Billboard 200 and No. 39 in the UK.
CD Track Listings:
- “All Shook Up” – 4:50
- “Spanish Boots” – 3:34
- “Girl From Mill Valley” – 3:45
- “Jailhouse Rock” – 3:14
- “Plynth (Water Down the Drain)” – 3:06
- “The Hangman’s Knee” – 4:48
- “Rice Pudding” – 7:29
Rough and Ready
Released: October 1971
Rough and Ready marked Jeff Beck’s shift towards jazz-fusion, showcasing a more experimental approach compared to his previous works. This was the first album credited to the Jeff Beck Group in its new formation, featuring Bob Tench on vocals, Max Middleton on keyboards, Clive Chaman on bass, and Cozy Powell on drums. The album was recorded at Island Studios in London during the summer of 1971 and was produced by Jeff Beck himself. It charted modestly, reaching No. 46 on the US Billboard 200.
CD Track Listings:
- “Got the Feeling” – 4:46
- “Situation” – 5:26
- “Short Business” – 2:34
- “Max’s Tune” – 8:24
- “I’ve Been Used” – 3:40
- “New Ways/Train Train” – 5:52
- “Jody” – 6:06
Jeff Beck Group
Released: July 1972
The Jeff Beck Group album, often seen as a continuation of the musical ideas from Rough and Ready, features a blend of rock, blues, and soul influences with a more polished production. Recorded in early 1972 at TMI Studios in Memphis, Tennessee, and produced by Steve Cropper, this album features the same lineup as Rough and Ready. The album is known for its soulful undertones and Beck’s powerful guitar work, reaching No. 19 on the US Billboard 200.
CD Track Listings:
- “Ice Cream Cakes” – 5:40
- “Glad All Over” – 2:58
- “Tonight I’ll Be Staying Here with You” – 4:59
- “Sugar Cane” – 4:07
- “I Can’t Give Back the Love I Feel for You” – 2:43
- “Going Down” – 6:49
- “I Got to Have a Song” – 3:28
- “Highways” – 4:41
- “Definitely Maybe” – 5:01
Beck, Bogert & Appice
Released: May 1973
Beck, Bogert & Appice features the powerful collaboration of Jeff Beck with bassist Tim Bogert and drummer Carmine Appice, forming a supergroup that melded hard rock and blues influences. Recorded at Chess Studios in Chicago and Electric Lady Studios in New York City in late 1972, the album showcases the trio’s formidable musicianship and chemistry. Produced by Don Nix and the band itself, the album received critical acclaim and featured a mix of original compositions and covers, reaching No. 12 on the US Billboard 200.
CD Track Listings:
- “Black Cat Moan” – 3:44
- “Lady” – 5:33
- “Oh to Love You” – 4:04
- “Superstition” – 4:15
- “Sweet Sweet Surrender” – 3:58
- “Why Should I Care” – 3:31
- “Lose Myself with You” – 3:16
- “Livin’ Alone” – 4:11
- “I’m So Proud” – 4:11
Read More: Carmine Appice: The ClassicRockHistory.com Interview
Blow by Blow
Released: March 29, 1975
Blow by Blow, recorded in October 1974 at AIR Studios in London, marked a significant shift to a more jazz-fusion oriented direction. The instrumental album showcased Beck’s innovative guitar techniques, produced by George Martin. It achieved critical acclaim and commercial success, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard 200 and going platinum in the US.
CD Track Listings:
- “You Know What I Mean” – 4:05
- “She’s a Woman” – 4:31
- “Constipated Duck” – 2:48
- “Air Blower” – 5:09
- “Scatterbrain” – 5:39
- “Cause We’ve Ended as Lovers” – 5:42
- “Thelonius” – 3:16
- “Freeway Jam” – 4:58
- “Diamond Dust” – 8:26
Wired
Released: May 1976
Wired, recorded from January to March 1976 at AIR Studios, London, continued the jazz-rock fusion style of its predecessor. The album features performances by Jan Hammer on keyboards, Wilbur Bascomb on bass, and Narada Michael Walden on drums. Produced by George Martin, it reached No. 16 on the US Billboard 200 and was certified gold.
CD Track Listings:
- “Led Boots” – 4:03
- “Come Dancing” – 5:55
- “Goodbye Pork Pie Hat” – 5:31
- “Head for Backstage Pass” – 2:43
- “Blue Wind” – 5:54
- “Sophie” – 6:31
- “Play with Me” – 4:10
- “Love Is Green” – 2:30
Jeff Beck with the Jan Hammer Group Live
Released: July 1977
Jeff Beck with the Jan Hammer Group Live captures the electrifying live performances of Jeff Beck and the Jan Hammer Group during their 1976 American tour. The album was recorded at various locations during the tour and showcases a fusion of jazz, rock, and funk. Produced by Jan Hammer and Jeff Beck, the live recordings highlight Beck’s guitar virtuosity alongside Hammer’s keyboard skills. It peaked at No. 23 on the US Billboard 200.
CD Track Listings:
- “Freeway Jam” – 7:23
- “Earth (Still Our Only Home)” – 4:35
- “She’s a Woman” – 4:27
- “Full Moon Boogie” – 6:09
- “Darkness/Earth in Search of a Sun” – 7:53
- “Scatterbrain” – 7:27
- “Blue Wind” – 6:34
There & Back
Released: June 1980
There & Back is Jeff Beck’s journey further into the realm of jazz fusion, prominently featuring the keyboard work of Jan Hammer, who co-composed much of the album. Recorded at Cherokee Studios in Los Angeles and Red Gate Studio in Kent, New York, during late 1979 and early 1980, the album showcases a seamless integration of electronic music with rock. Beck’s fiery guitar work is complemented by Simon Phillips on drums and Mo Foster on bass. The production was managed by Jeff Beck and Ken Scott. Upon release, it achieved moderate success, reaching No. 21 on the US Billboard 200.
CD Track Listings:
- “Star Cycle” – 4:56
- “Too Much to Lose” – 2:57
- “You Never Know” – 4:03
- “The Pump” – 5:45
- “El Becko” – 3:59
- “The Golden Road” – 4:54
- “Space Boogie” – 5:04
- “The Final Peace” – 3:36
Flash
Released: July 1985
Flash marks Jeff Beck’s strong pivot towards a more pop-oriented approach, featuring vocal collaborations, most notably with Rod Stewart on “People Get Ready.” This album, recorded at The Power Station in New York City during late 1984 and early 1985, aimed to blend Beck’s guitar prowess with more mainstream music elements. Produced by Nile Rodgers and Jeff Beck, the album not only reached No. 39 on the US Billboard 200 but also earned Beck the Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance for “Escape.” The inclusion of multiple vocal tracks was a departure from his predominantly instrumental past work.
CD Track Listings:
- “Ambitious” – 4:38
- “Gets Us All in the End” – 6:06
- “Escape” – 4:41
- “People Get Ready” (feat. Rod Stewart) – 4:52
- “Stop, Look and Listen” – 4:26
- “Get Workin'” – 3:35
- “Ecstasy” – 3:31
- “Night After Night” – 3:40
- “You Know, We Know” – 5:35
Jeff Beck’s Guitar Shop
Released: October 1989
Jeff Beck’s Guitar Shop was recorded at The Sol Studio in Cookham, Berkshire, during early 1989. This album, featuring Terry Bozzio on drums and Tony Hymas on keyboards, is known for its dynamic and innovative instrumental performances. Produced by Jeff Beck and Leif Mases, the album won the Grammy Award for Best Rock Instrumental Performance and reached No. 49 on the US Billboard 200.
CD Track Listings:
- “Guitar Shop” – 5:03
- “Savoy” – 3:53
- “Behind the Veil” – 4:55
- “Big Block” – 4:09
- “Where Were You” – 3:17
- “Stand on It” – 4:59
- “A Day in the House” – 5:04
- “Two Rivers” – 5:25
- “Sling Shot” – 3:09
Frankie’s House
Released: 1992
Frankie’s House is a soundtrack album for the television film of the same name, a collaboration between Jeff Beck and composer Jed Leiber. Recorded in 1991, this album features instrumental tracks that blend atmospheric and cinematic qualities, showcasing Beck’s versatility as a guitarist. The soundtrack provides an evocative musical backdrop to the film’s dramatic narrative.
CD Track Listings:
- “Ambitious” – 4:38
- “Gets Us All in the End” – 5:06
- “Escape” – 4:41
- “People Get Ready” – 4:52
- “Stop, Look and Listen” – 4:26
- “Get Workin'” – 3:35
- “Ecstasy” – 3:31
- “Night After Night” – 3:40
- “You Know, We Know” – 5:35
Crazy Legs
Released: June 29, 1993
Crazy Legs is a rockabilly tribute album featuring Jeff Beck and the Big Town Playboys, dedicated to Gene Vincent and his Blue Caps. Recorded at The Town House in London in early 1993, the album revisits the classic rockabilly sound with authentic instrumentation and production. This project showcases Beck’s adaptability and respect for early rock and roll, further highlighting his expansive musical range.
CD Track Listings:
- “Race with the Devil” – 2:00
- “Cruisin'” – 2:22
- “Crazy Legs” – 2:03
- “Double Talkin’ Baby” – 2:15
- “Woman Love” – 2:36
- “Lotta Lovin'” – 2:04
- “Catman” – 2:24
- “Pink Thunderbird” – 2:30
- “Baby Blue” – 2:37
- “You Better Believe” – 2:10
- “Who Slapped John?” – 1:56
- “Say Mama” – 2:13
- “Red Blue Jeans and a Pony Tail” – 2:18
- “Five Feet of Lovin'” – 2:10
- “B-I-Bickey-Bi, Bo-Bo-Go” – 2:12
- “Blues Stay Away from Me” – 2:24
- “Pretty, Pretty Baby” – 2:27
Who Else!
Released: March 16, 1999
Who Else! marked Jeff Beck’s return to the forefront of modern rock with a blend of electronic music and his signature guitar work. Recorded at Metropolis Studios in London in late 1998, this album features collaborations with musicians like Tony Hymas on keyboards and programming, and Jennifer Batten on guitar and programming. Produced by Jeff Beck and Tony Hymas, Who Else! reached No. 99 on the US Billboard 200, demonstrating Beck’s continual evolution and relevance in the music industry.
CD Track Listings:
- “What Mama Said” – 3:22
- “Psycho Sam” – 4:55
- “Brush with the Blues” – 6:24
- “Blast from the East” – 4:43
- “Space for the Papa” – 7:42
- “Angel (Footsteps)” – 6:30
- “THX138” – 6:15
- “Hip-Notica” – 4:37
- “Even Odds” – 3:27
- “Declan” – 4:02
- “Another Place” – 1:47
You Had It Coming
Released: February 6, 2001
You Had It Coming is an album that sees Jeff Beck diving deeper into electronic and ambient music textures, integrating them with his explorative guitar sound. Recorded at Metropolis Studios in London in 2000, this album features innovative guitar techniques that mesh seamlessly with electronic music elements, produced by Andy Wright. The track “Dirty Mind” reached No. 17 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
CD Track Listings:
- “Earthquake” – 3:18
- “Roy’s Toy” – 3:35
- “Dirty Mind” – 3:50
- “Rollin’ and Tumblin'” – 3:11
- “Nadia” – 3:51
- “Loose Cannon” – 5:18
- “Rosebud” – 3:43
- “Left Hook” – 4:22
- “Blackbird” – 2:26
- “Suspension” – 3:09
Jeff
Released: August 5, 2003
Jeff is another step in Beck’s career where he continued to fuse rock with electronic music, creating dense, textured soundscapes. Recorded primarily at Metropolis Studios in London, the album was produced by Andy Wright and Jeff Beck. It features Beck’s further experimentation with guitar effects and sound processing, making it a standout project in his discography.
CD Track Listings:
- “So What” – 4:19
- “Plan B” – 4:49
- “Pork-U-Pine” – 4:06
- “Seasons” – 3:48
- “Trouble Man” – 3:34
- “Grease Monkey” – 3:33
- “Hot Rod Honeymoon” – 3:32
- “Line Dancing with Monkeys” – 5:17
- “JB’s Blues” – 4:21
- “Pay Me No Mind (Jeff Beck Remix)” – 3:19
- “My Thing” – 4:11
- “Bulgaria” – 2:59
- “Why Lord Oh Why?” – 4:42
Emotion & Commotion
Released: April 13, 2010
Emotion & Commotion features a return to more melodic content, combining orchestral arrangements with Beck’s soulful guitar playing. Recorded at Sarm Studios in London, this album includes several tracks with full orchestral backing, blending classical music elements with rock and blues. Produced by Steve Lipson and Trevor Horn, the album earned Beck two Grammy Awards and reached No. 11 on the Billboard 200.
CD Track Listings:
- “Corpus Christi Carol” – 2:41
- “Hammerhead” – 4:15
- “Never Alone” – 4:23
- “Over the Rainbow” – 3:11
- “I Put a Spell on You” (featuring Joss Stone) – 2:59
- “Serene” – 6:05
- “Lilac Wine” (featuring Imelda May) – 4:45
- “Nessun Dorma” – 2:56
- “There’s No Other Me” (featuring Joss Stone) – 4:05
- “Elegy for Dunkirk” (featuring Olivia Safe) – 4:05
Loud Hailer
Released: July 15, 2016
Loud Hailer is a vibrant and politically charged album, featuring powerful guitar work alongside aggressive lyrical themes. Recorded at multiple studios including Abbey Road Studios in London, this album was produced by Filippo Cimatti and Jeff Beck. It introduces a more modern rock sound, incorporating electronic elements and a raw edge with vocal contributions from Rosie Bones and Carmen Vandenberg.
CD Track Listings:
- “The Revolution Will Be Televised” – 3:53
- “Live in the Dark” – 3:47
- “Pull It” – 2:09
- “Thugs Club” – 5:14
- “Scared for the Children” – 6:07
- “Right Now” – 3:57
- “Shame” – 4:40
- “Edna” – 1:03
- “The Ballad of the Jersey Wives” – 3:50
- “O.I.L. (Can’t Get Enough of That Sticky)” – 4:41
- “Shrine” – 5:47
18
Released: July 15, 2022
18 is a collaborative album between Jeff Beck and actor Johnny Depp, recorded at various studios around the world. The album features a mix of original tracks and covers, showcasing both Beck’s guitar prowess and Depp’s vocal abilities. The project blends rock, blues, and cinematic elements, highlighting the duo’s shared artistic visions and chemistry.
CD Track Listings:
- “Midnight Walker” – 3:46
- “The Death and Resurrection Show” – 5:03
- “Time” – 4:20
- “Sad Motherfuckin’ Parade” – 3:17
- “Don’t Talk (Put Your Head on My Shoulder)” – 3:29
- “This is a Song for Miss Hedy Lamarr” – 5:21
- “Caroline, No” – 4:02
- “Ooo Baby Baby” – 3:45
- “What’s Going On” – 4:31
- “Venus in Furs” – 5:42
- “Let It Be Me” – 3:32
- “Stars” – 3:53
Read More: Top 10 Jeff Beck Songs