The group initially performed under several names before settling on “The Yardbirds,” reportedly inspired by the writings of author Jack Kerouac, who used the slang term “yardbird” to describe a drifter or someone living on the margins of society.
The Yardbirds emerged from the vibrant rhythm and blues scene that flourished in London during the early 1960s, becoming one of the most influential British bands of the decade. Although they would later gain worldwide recognition for helping launch the careers of three legendary guitarists—Eric Clapton, Jeff Beck, and Jimmy Page—
One of the three greatest guitarists of all time that played with the Yardbirds!
Geoffrey Arnold Beck (Jeff Beck) was born June 24, 1944, to Arnold and Ethel Beck at 206 Demesne Road, Wallington, South London. As a boy, he sang in the choir and cited Les Paul as the first guitarist that impressed him.
