Jim Beard Dies: Steely Dan Keyboardist Was 63
deadline.comJim Beard, a pianist, keyboardist, composer, producer and arranger known for his work with Steely Dan as well as jazz musicians Wayne Shorter and John McLaughlin, died Saturday, March 2, in a New York City hospital from complications due to a sudden illness.
He was 63. His death was announced by a representative. Born August 26, 1960, in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, Beard moved to New York in 1985, launching a career that saw him perform with Steely Dan, Pat Metheny, John McLaughlin and Wayne Shorter.
A member of Steely Dan since 2008, Beard had recently been touring with the band on the Eagles “Long Goodbye” tour. His last performance with Steely Dan was on January 20 in Phoenix.
Beard also recorded with artists including Dizzy Gillespie, the Brecker Brothers, Dianne Reeves, Meshell Ndegeocello, Toninho Horta and Steve Vai.
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