S.O.D. "Beck's Bolero" by Jeff Beck

10/18/2015     This was for Beck to do as a side project in 1967 when he was still with the Yardbirds.  Beck was ahead of his time here and continues to perform the song.  A staggering blend of musicians round out the line-up: Future Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, drummer Keith Moon, Nicky Hopkins on Keyboards, bassist John Paul Jones and of course Jeff Beck.  Bassist/keyboardist, John Entwistle did not show up for the original recording date, therefore Jones and Hopkins who were studio musicians were brought in.

     The instrumental was inspired by composer/conductor/pianist, Maurice Ravel's one-movement orchestral piece "Bol'ero" which was inspired by Russian actress and dancer, Ida Lvovna Rubinstein.  

     When you have legendary artists together of this caliber, some arguing will naturally go on about who created what.  Although Beck is credited with the original guitar composition, Page's name is seen on every other one.  The very first heavy metal riff may have come from this tune, which the two also argue over.