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Jim Beard Dies: Steely Dan Keyboardist Was 63


Jim 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 […]

Jim 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. 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. Beard also recorded with artists including Dizzy Gillespie, the Brecker Brothers, Dianne Reeves, Meshell Ndegeocello, Toninho Horta and Steve Vai.

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