The views stated here are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the editors of this newspaper. We welcome supporting or opposing views on any published item. Received January 12, 2023.
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Jeff Beck, who passed away this week, will be remembered as one of the greatest guitarists of all time. Not only was his musical talent immense—his heart was, too, especially when it came to animals.
Early on in his career, Beck made the compassionate choice to stop eating animals. Later, he reflected, “I realized what a fool I’d been eating meat at all because, you know, you can’t just carve animals up. It’s not necessary.”
In 1991, Beck teamed with fellow animal rights rocker Chrissie Hynde to contribute an original track for PETA’s Tame Yourself album, called “Skin Thieves.” Later, he spoke out against stealing animals’ skins when he joined Morrissey, Pink, and other rock royalty in supporting PETA UK’s campaign against killing black bears for Britain’s Ministry of Defense’s ceremonial caps.
No one will ever be able to play like Jeff Beck did, but all of us can emulate his compassion. Please, go vegan and don’t be a “skin thief”—never wear fur, leather, wool, or anything else stolen from animals.
Lisa Lange, Senior Vice President
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA)
