It was previously believed that Jeff Beck’s final studio recording was for Mark Knopfler’s charity single “Going Home,” released in March 2024. However, Mick Rogers, the guitarist for Manfred Mann’s Earth Band, has now revealed that he may possess a far more significant piece of musical history.
In a recent interview with Guitar World magazine, Rogers shared details of Beck’s final studio session, which took place in August 2022. According to Rogers, the legendary guitarist’s last recording occurred during a day spent at Beck’s home, where he and Rogers, along with a group of rockabilly musicians, worked on an album that has yet to be released.
Rogers explained, “I went down to his house, and his manager, a great friend of mine, Colin Newman, put us two together. We had a play together, and I believe I’ve got the last recording Jeff Beck ever did in the studios. We got together with some rockabilly guys and did an album which still hasn’t been released.”
During their session, Rogers recalled seeing Beck’s famous white Stratocaster sitting on the couch. He encouraged Beck to pick it up and play, though Beck was reportedly hesitant. “We could empty a room because we were just talking about rockabilly and how he grew up – we were both Cliff Gallup fans,” said Rogers.
Despite their efforts, the album has yet to see the light of day. The reason? According to Rogers, Beck was dissatisfied with the tone he was getting from his equipment during the session. “We played a track called ‘Lucille’ by Little Richard, but nothing came of it because Jeff was playing through his dodgy Marshall and didn’t like the sound,” Rogers explained. “He said: ‘We’ll do it again, later on.’ Of course, he then went on tour with Mr Depp.”
Rogers added, “When I listen to the track now, I think: ‘Jeff, there’s nothing wrong with your sound.’ He could have played through a paper cup, and it still would have sounded like Jeff Beck! He was just wonderful.”
Sadly, Beck never had the opportunity to revisit the session. The following month, Beck went on tour with Johnny Depp, culminating in his final show in Reno, Nevada, on November 12. Just two months later, Beck passed away.
As for when this unreleased recording might be made available, Rogers was uncertain. However, given its likely status as Beck’s final studio session, it is expected that this unique piece of musical history won’t remain locked away for long.
Related Topics
- Neil Young Joins Bachman-Turner Overdrive on Their First New Single in Over 25 Years, “60 Years Ago”
- The Timeless Guitar of Oscar Moore: A Tribute to His Legacy
- Tom Morello Reveals Exciting Surprises for Black Sabbath’s Final Concert and His Role as Curator
