Steely Dan Band Member Jim Beard Has Died At Age 63

Steely Dan keyboardist Jim Beard has passed away at the age of 63. According to reports, Beard died in a New York hospital on Saturday surrounded by his loved ones.

Beard was a longtime member of Steely Dan and last performed with the group on January 20 in Phoenix.

The 63-year-old reportedly passed away due to complications from an illness. A rep for the musician told a news outlet that he spent his last moments with his loved ones while in a hospital in New York.

The final time Beard played with Steely Dan was on the Eagles "Long Goodbye" tour, which took place in Phoenix on January 20. He was not only a keyboardist but also a pianist, arranger, songwriter, and producer.

Born in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania, on August 26, 1960, Beard rose to fame both as a solo jazz musician and as a sideman for jazz greats like John McLaughlin and Wayne Shorter.

Beard leaves behind his mother, Sarah, sister, Nancy Canale, brother, Bill Beard, and son, Victor and Caitlin Beard.

Over on X, formerly known as Twitter, netizens paid tribute to the late beard, remembering his legacy as a talented keyboardist.

Lester The Nightfly Radio's official X page spoke on his passing, writing, "It's with heavy heart that we report news of long-time Steely Dan pianist/keyboardist Jim Beard's passing. Enjoy this video showing the lighter side of Jim with Steely Dan guitarist Jon Herrington. You will be missed, Jim."

An X user wrote, "That’s so sad…. Have seen him play a few times with SD. A great talent."

Another said, "Incredibly sad news. Jim was a terrific and unique player."

A third person stated, "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."

"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." wrote a fourth individual.