Steely Dan keyboardist Jim Beard dies at age 63

Jim Beard, best known as the keyboardist for the legendary music group Steely Dan, has passed away at age 63, according to reports.

Beard, who collaborated with stars such as Pat Metheny, John McLaughlin, and Wayne Shorter during his career, died in a New York City hospital on March 3.

The renowned musician was born back in 1960 in Ridley Park, Pennsylvania.

He moved to New York in 1985 in order to pursue his musical career.

A representative for Beard has said that he died from complications attributed to a sudden illness.

Beard perhaps made the biggest move of his career when he joined Steely Dan in 2008.

He was with the group for over a decade, performing up until very recently.

His final performance was only about a month prior to his death.

Beard reportedly rocked out with the rest of the band on Jan. 20 in Phoenix Arizona.

Musicians have come out expressing sorrow over Beard's death.

"Jim Beard, RIP … 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," Peter Erskine wrote.

"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 … Will miss you, dear Jim," said Antonio Sanchez.