When Jeff Beck passed away in January 2023, the music world felt a profound loss. To honor his legacy, a tribute concert was held on May 22, 2023, at the Royal Albert Hall. The concert featured a star-studded lineup of friends and collaborators, including Eric Clapton, Rod Stewart, Ronnie Wood, and Billy Gibbons.
One of the standout performances came from Imelda May, a close friend who had toured with Beck. She graced the stage in a stunning red dress, joining Ronnie Wood, Johnny Depp, and Billy Gibbons. Imelda’s entrance was captivating; she danced with Wood before taking the microphone to deliver a raw and powerful rendition of The Shangri-Las’ “Remember (Walking in the Sand).” Her performance was met with thunderous applause and has since amassed over 3.2 million views online. One viewer praised her stage presence, saying, “That slow walk out on stage was pretty outstanding on its own. Then, she just crushed the vocal — great job.”
The night didn’t end there for Imelda. She returned to the stage later, joined by Metallica’s Kirk Hammett, for a rousing version of “Train Kept A-Rollin’,” a song that became a classic with The Yardbirds, thanks in part to Beck’s iconic guitar work. The energy and emotion of the performance were palpable, serving as a fitting tribute to Beck’s immense influence on rock music.
The concert underscored Jeff Beck’s enduring legacy, from his groundbreaking guitar work with The Yardbirds and the Jeff Beck Group to his later supergroup Beck, Bogert, and Appice. The gathering of such talented musicians and the heartfelt performances highlighted the profound impact Beck had on the music world. This tribute concert was a testament to his lasting influence and the deep respect and admiration he garnered throughout his career.