10 years…
Where do I start? It’s hard to believe… almost unimaginable, that it has been a decade since we lost Jeff. March 2nd has always been a difficult day, filled with sadness as we think of him. However, continuing to remember him throughout the year and the joy he brought to us, always helps to soften it.
After 10 years, his memory still lives on in our hearts and in his music , which we are blessed to have forever. I try to remind myself that Jeff was about living, always. That is exactly what we’ve been doing. Part of that has been making sure his family, friends and fans continue to have the opportunity to hear his amazing performances through ongoing projects.
Over the last few years, I’ve had the chance to discover new music of Jeff’s that I had never heard before. Thanks to the incredible vision and dedication of Roger and the entire team involved, I was delighted that we were able to share these astonishing works with all of you.
On the family front, Jeff’s daughter has grown into an incredibly accomplished young woman, our son is now 13 and I think they love their father’s music just as much as we do. It’s been so important to me that Jeff’s work is available to his children. Not to sadden them, but to help them never forget part of what made their father the beautiful person he was.
Since his passing, I’ve had the privilege to learn how much his fans care. You have been so supportive and always ready to hear the next new surprise we have in store for you! Your continued loyalty has encouraged us to keep finding new ways to remember him and I thank you so very much for that.
There are so many times we wish Jeff could’ve been here to see the appreciation shown for all he contributed throughout his lifetime. Some of those occasions include the induction into the Terry Fox Hall of Fame, the naming of Jeff Healey Park, a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame and most recently in 2016, a star on The Mississauga Music Walk of Fame.
Jeff always managed to inspire people and the impact he made on all our lives continues. With that in mind, let’s take today to remember Jeff. Remember all he accomplished, all he shared with us, and all he still encourages us to be, despite leaving us far too soon.
I will always love you, Jeff.
Cristie
Photo © Paul Troiani
This weekend on CBC Radio’s ‘Saturday Night Blues’, Holger Petersen will be featuring a tribute to Jeff Healey with interview clips from Bonnie Raitt, Randy Bachman, Philip Sayce, David Wilcox, Matt Minglewood, Colin Bray, Terra Hazelton, Colin James and the legendary Jack Bruce. Tune in nationwide to CBC Radio at 9pm Saturday March 3rd, or listen online at cbc.ca/radio It will run in each timezone across the country starting at 6pm EST on Radio 2 and 9pm on Radio One…
Jeff Healey was and always will be a huge part of my life. I started playing guitar in the same style as he did, right after hearing the “See the Light “ album for the first time. The impact made of hearing this album was unforgettable.
I’m a huge admirer of his work, the man himself, and his gear. He took playing on a Stratocaster to a whole new level. His sound in the “Healey in Halifax “ footage was some of the biggest I ever heard. Next, the “Live in London “ footage, followed by the “See the light “ album are my favourite moments to hear him make that guitar scream.
Raw Blues Power at its best. Canada had the best. No one can replace the best. I rest my case.
Your friend,
William Furlong.
Seen Jeff Healey Band at the Misty Moon in Halifax….amazing performer….amazing musician…..still live his music. MAY HE RIP!
Love his music!
I got to thinking about Jeff Healey after watching ‘Road House’ in the very early hours of the morning a few days ago while up all night sick. Jeff passed away just 2 months before my father, who also had cancer. The two never knew each other, though my father thought his performances in the ‘Road House’ film were pretty remarkable. My Dad and I loved to watch that movie together, so I can’t help but think of him when I hear Jeff’s music. I’ve been looking up and listening to all the Jeff Healey Band music I can find and I love his music more as time goes on. He was truly so gifted. It doesn’t seem right or real that he passed away at just 41. I’ll be 41 in May of this year. My heart goes out to you, his family and all the other fans who still love Jeff’s music. I hope he can see in Heaven and I hope to see him tearing up the stage when my time comes to pass… Thank you for this website and for all you do to keep Jeff’s memory alive. God bless you.
So missed.
Only recently heard Angel Eyes. Didn’t know Jeff had died.
So sad we lost someone with such a voice.
I just love his music . I can honestly say hits my soul .
Thanks Cristie for the loving words on the anniversary of Jeff’s passing.You would know how many people across the globe miss this Legend For me,it’s the reason that I do Radio,and continue to try and play the music that we love.In my 71st year,playing the Blues with my good friend Brad on CBG’s(Not Brill,But luv’ it just the same).Keeping in touch thru his website is great for me,so to you,your family & Rog’Thank You for all that you do.Best rm ‘Down Under’Tecka’ Terry Iredale Tecka’s Rock & Blues Show on CRN.
http://www.mixcloud.com/teckastracks
I met Jeff several times in Australia in a music shop I worked at. He loved old 78 records. I would spend hours with him reading out all the titles on the labels and telling him what type of condition they were in. He was really nice man.
A great version of While My Guitar Gently Weeps, composed by George Harrison, Sady missed. I’m in Edinburgh, Scotland.
Thank you for being the loving wife you were to Jeff.
He will never be forgotten and will forever be loved.
Cristie I remember well the times we had together ❤ missing them and you guys!! Didn’t know that the day he passed was on my bday though!! R. I. P. Jeff.
Love and always thinking about you and your family. Luv Ricki xxoo
Love. His. Music
Forever
Yes, so do think and feel many of us, all over the globe! WK, Frankfurt area, Germany
RIP beautiful music maker. I did not know he passed. I’m so SORRY and saddened today, God bless all of the Healey family. His music will live in my heart forever
Good day to you my relatives. Having made 72 trips around the Sun living through the 60s and the rock and roll era why in the good name of God has this man not gotten the recognition he deserves. He should be in every Hall of Fame pertaining to anything to do with music especially the guitar. Watching him play on the menu videos, and thank you so much for keeping those alive, he was not a performer he was the embodiment of living the music. Every pore of his body exuded the vibrant sounds which he was able to produce through his guitar and the vibrancy and tone of his voice were very ethereal. No matter where his performance whether it is electric or acoustic he managed to bring sounds that were unique to the whole scene. I have to guess if he was not about Awards or those accolades and yet how could anyone in the music field listen to this man play watch his dedication to his art and not give him all the Kudos available to anyone. He is an inspiration, always brings joy to my heart no matter the genre of music he is playing and I continue to pray for him his wife and his children while giving thanks for your continuing his legacy. I submit my life to God’s will it just would have been nice to have him here for a longer period of time. I know he is continuing his wonderful work in otherworldly music on the other side camp. Hokahe brother.
Mitakuye Oyasin
Angel Eyes…met my wife 1990 28 years later it’s still our song. Such a talent. Charles..n…Anita. North Carolina
My Daughter has chosen his Angel Eyes song as their first dance song. His music is stilled played in our house.
Hello Cristie, funny what comes into your mind at 4 am when you can’t sleep. Jeff Healey came to mine. I suddenly had to look him up and read all about you and his children. Not sure if it’s a sign to let you know he is in a wonderful place with good people and happy. Usually that is what I take from my dreams. Most importantly he is pain free , not alone and with you and your children always. Have a wonderful Christmas, don’t forget to put up his ornament and hug the kids. God Bless you all.
O Jeff I love your music, I admire your style, I wish I could give you a hug.
Greetings to your children from Suriname.
We are missing this amazing musician. Wish we could have met him. Love and respect to his family and friends. ❤️
I wasn’t a very big follower of your husband. That being said I admired his perseverance. I am also disabled and feel he was a true inspiration to all disabled people
My husband since has passed , he was the one introduced me to his music . He knew I would love and I did ! Saw the him live before a ” Big Band ” in Va. that is why we went to hear him only could not believe it ! I think it was with Bonnie Rait , yes it was . Ever since then I was hooked on is music . The sound , the guitar , and the words . Anyway , not to ramble on ….. Was thinking of my husband and the music , I play CDs often ,but some how have lost some of my original CDs . Where in the world can I get ? Sincerely , Linda Mowels
Hi Linda!
Our shop is being revamped at the moment, but it should be back up in a few days. Just click the “SHOP” tab up above or go to this link – SHOP
Thanks! ~Rog
Me and the other guitarist in the band will play sitting down when we play a set to some of the music Jeff performed. The crowd knew what we were doing and we got a Huge response from the crowd when we were done . We dedicated it to Jeff and in his honor. He was an inspiration to me and the other guitarist in the band. Jeff will be with us all forever and his life will show us if we want to do something we can do it with whatever obstacles are in our way. We love you Jeff and you will never be forgotten Confidence Man !
Was just listening to Jeff’s music and watched a few interviews. What a talented but humble man. We miss Jeff but are blessed that his music and memory will live on forever. God bless Jeff and his family.
A real life guitar hero who lives on in the hearts of his many fans.
I am blessed with having eyesight, but many times I closed my eyes while listening to Jeff, and I pretended that was as talented as him.
Hi, I’m just watching Roadhouse, for the 2nd time in many years. Always liked Jeff’s music. Only thought to say how sweet a looking guy he was! Kind of a baby face, and there is certainly nothing wrong with that. I was sad to hear of his passing, but glad to hear that it sounds like you were a true love of his.
Very accomplished musician. My friend in Japan liked his music also. Being 74 now, this fellow lives forever in his family and music. RIP old friend
Was rewatching the movie Road House and wondered what became of this handsome sweet singer. I was sad to hear of his passing on so young. So glad to see he was loved by his wife and family and all his fans. He had beautiful voice & sweet nature about him.
His family & friends love those are the true treasures of life. To be loved, cared for and appreciated makes living with problems or challenges more tolerable.
Glad you keep his memory alive.
Pray that his wife & children remain well, unified & blessed.
Enjoyed reading this post about him.
One of my favorite guitarists tough to emulate, the neighborhood is rocking to Jeff tonight here in Greece
Maine loved Jeff Healey.. ♥
Oh Cristie my heart aches heavily for you.Jeff was an amazing musician,not only a guitarist and vocalist but a trumpet player too,so amazing!I imagine he was a great husband and father to both of his children,as well I’m sure you are as a mom.Ive never been to Canada but it’s on my bucket list,hopefully one day but not getting any younger!Turned 67 in May.Just last week I lost a childhood friend to cancer.It started in his liver but very recently progressed to his heart and lungs.His name was Eddie,a yr. my junior his birthday month April.I seem to keep losing my friends had for a long time most younger or just a wee bit older then I.One was another Canadian musician.He went by Ronnie English and his band was that plus band.He used to tour and open for Doobie bros.I learned after his passing his name was Rod Black But will always be Ronnie to me.Dont know if your interested but I have a Facebook music page called “ Bluesrockers” I was only able to save one of his songs.great player too.You most likely would have to join page or friend me to see & hear it.song makes me breakdown.so beautiful blues.I often post Jeff’s music or pics too.i have 1 other music page too.Anyway love to have you.My Dad passed in March too,also cancer,throat.1981.
Beautifully said Cristie, it’s still hard to believe Jeff is gone period, let alone 10 years now. Hearing him on the radio just about everyday helps to keep him alive, along with wonderful memories far more appreciated today then at the time. All the very best to you and your family, you ladies have done a wonderful job raising Rachel and Derek. Jeff would be very proud of all of you. God Bless and have a great 2018..
Big hugs, sis!
Lovely words Cristie and I think I can safely say that Jeff’s memory and his legacy is in safe hands and the work that you do, assisted by Rog to keep the flame alight is truly appreciated so from one of your many friends from across the pond can I say thank you both and thank you Jeff for all the great music we miss you man!
Bless you for keeping his legacy alive! What a blessing to be able to hear his voice everyday! NOONE COMPARES, Love ya Cristie. Hope to meet you someday!
I first saw angel eyes on mtv and I was floored,how can a guy see the guitar and visualize the fretboard when he lost his sight at an early age? Jeff is an inspiration to play guitar,I had lost interest due to life getting in the way of fun but after I witnessed a blind guy playing guitar I immediately went to the closet and grabbed my guitar(this was in the 90s) and haven’t put it down at all, he is missed alot and I play his CDs all the time,RIP Norman “Jeff” Healey, your music will live beyond forever
I became a JHB fan at an early age . Loved all his music . Also had the pleasure to meet Jeff , Joe n Tom and most of his road crew in Knoxville Tennessee in the early 90’s . They were all so nice . Jeff definitely was taken far too soon but his memory n music will live on
Jeff has been a HUGE PART of the soundtrack to my life, and I miss his talents immensely. It’s wonderful that Roger always makes it a point to keep Jeff’s name relevant. With such a treasure trove of material, my Ipod plays Healey music every day. Keeps me sane.
March 2nd 2008 was a day that still is very fresh in my mind and always be with me.I was a very young Jeff Healey fan when I first discovered him through the See The Light Live From London performance that my mom had taped from the tv broadcast.
From that very moment that I first saw him being as young as I was at 6 yrs of age…I knew he was different and I also grasped the fact that he was blind but I didn’t understand what blindness was all about until my mom told me that he couldn’t see anything and the fact that he couldn’t see quite honestly scared me so I would tell my mom in a frightening tone “Turn it off,turn it off”…But something always had me curious about him,his style of playing and the fact that he did it all while being blind had me coming back for more…Needless to say that I became Jeff’s biggest fan…would watch the Award shows on tv every chance that I knew TJHB would be on them.I would collect all his albums (except for Cover To Cover…(I didn’t know of it’s release until I got his final album Get Me Some).Anyways when I found out about his death through an email from his fanclub that I was apart of I was immediately shocked and it was like I lost a best friend 🙁 So what did I do to help get over him not being with us anymore…I would play Angel Eyes over and over and over again and to be honest it took me a good year before I finally stopped crying and realizing that he was never coming back…So since then I still continue to collect any dvd’s or music of his to this day…In a way to remember both him and his talents as well as his music by.He will always be missed but never forgotten…Thanks Jeff for the awesome memories that will never fade from my life.
And that’s my Jeff Healey story…Hope you enjoyed reading it.
IM AROUND SAME AGE AS JEFF WOULD BE IM 51 , YES JEFF LEFT US WAY TO SOON!! BUT HIS ACCOMPLISHMENTS WILL ECHO 4 A LONG TIME,HE WAS AMAZING ,AWESOME!! I SAW HIM AT THE MISTY MOON IN THE EIGHTYS AND IM SURE THE YOUTUBE OF HIM THERE IN THE EIGHTYS I WAS THERE, TO HIS CHILDREN YOUR DAD WAS ONE IN A BILLION 4SURE HES ROCKIN WITH SRV, AND ALL THE GREATS IT WOULD BE SOME BAND TO SEE, HES BEEN GONE TEN YEARS SEEMS LIKE FOREVER, IMAGINE THE MUSIC WE WOULD BE LISTEN TODAY HAD HE BEEN STILL HERE, THANKYOU JEFF
Hi Cristie;
A wonderful note, thank you from all of us fans who are always inspired and motivated by Jeff’s music and a giant thank you for my old friend Roger!! Rock on buddy, never stop…Love always…Curt
I was lucky enough to spend some time with Mr. Healey after a show in London. He was very accomadating and friendly. I asked him for advice for a young fledgling guitarist and he told me to “Stick to the saxophone” I still laugh thinking about that night. He influenced me in many ways that changed my life and lead me to have many adventures playing blues around the world. We are all so lucky to have his music to embrace.I was so sad when he passed but we should all be happy that we have his legacy to share. I have always been and always will be a devoted fan.
Thank you for sharing your wonderful husband and his music with us. He touched so many and none of his fans will ever forget him I know I won’t. I hope one day there will be another celebration of his life. I am so honored that I was able to go to the one that you held at the Docks in Toronto. That was a day I will never forget. I wish you and your family well.Thank you.❤
I was blessed to see your husband perform in Dallas at an SRV Ride and Rememberance. An added thing I’ll never forget is watching him ride the mechanical bull after the show !!
I was blessed to meet your husband after a show in Charlottetown and thank him for the many chills he sent down my spine over the years. Still one of my all time favorites! He even autographed a poster for me, but I lost track of it over the years.
I miss him so much…
Well said Christie Your husband was a amazing person and music artist I’m so greatful had I had the pleasure to see him play and sing He will always be remembered in my heart ! God bless you and your family.
Large part of growing up and a break from all the repetitive music that was around Jeff and his music was something we all needed and miss . Thank God for You Tube and being to research all the venues and live clips that keep me going
Still listen weekly. Sometimes daily. Never gets old. Was fortunate enough to be front row center when JHB played Syracuse Symphony Hall early 90’s. His playing was mesmerizing. I was awestruck.
I proudly display a poster from that show in our studio
Thinking of you all today, Cristie – and we’ll be listening tomorrow night. We have so much to thank Jeff for – including bringing us all together through his music, his friendship and his generosity of spirit.
I had the privilege of seeing Jeff & his band live in Wellington New Zealand performing their last concert of the “See The Light” world tour.
A truly magical experience..
Well said!
As an RB survivor (my daughter too) and a blues rock fan around town, I remember hearing Jeff at Multiple venues around town and of course at the club on Bathurst at Queen . I still thing of him and the great music when I go past the Paddock or now closed Silver Dollar. his legacy and life give me hope that a person can get through most anything. A beautiful tribute to a great man. All the best to the Healey Clan. Darren
We watched Road House the other day. He was a very talented man. I’m very sorry for your loss. He looks over your family…I have no doubt about that. Hold tight to those memories. Know he made a difference and touched many lives. My condolences on this anniversary.
Thanks for your note letting us know how you and your kids are doing, Cristie. Jeff is watching over you all and I know he’s proud of you all, for what you all are today, and for all the wonders that are to come. As sad as I am that Jeff is no longer with us, I’m glad to hear your kids like the musical door that dad has opened for them. Who knows, maybe one or both of them will take up music, if that’s what they truly love in life – I know you and Jeff would not want it any other way. I tip my hat to you Cristie, for being strong and carrying on for your kid’s sake, for yourself, and for Jeff. Though I never knew the classical and jazz side of Jeff, it was always his extraordinary work with his bandmates Joe Rockman and Tom Stephen, his passionate and heartfelt words of wisdom, channeled through his stellar guitar work, that made me realize early in Jeff’s career just how much a blind man can really see; frankly much more than most of the rest of us ever will. And he gave it right back to us. Jeff gave us all so much of what he saw in his time here – love and music, all in abundance and without hesitation. This to me is the definition of a true legend, one whom will never, ever be forgotten. Peace, and God bless.
I was at the Joe Coker show years ago at the ACC, and saw you and Jeff walk by, I poked a friend I was with an said “Hey there’s Jeff Healey” I was shocked when you came back and handed me two tickets to his house of Blues! Such a wonderful gesture! We also saw him in Ottawa at the Central after coming from seeing Dan Ackroyd at the NAC! What a great night of Canadian blues rock at its finest❤We are blessed to have his music live on!
Hi, I play guitar and was inspired by Jeff many years ago. Just another gig story but, I was into SRV and blues/rock guitar and seeking out great players. I had a chance to see Jeff in his early days at a small venue in Cleveland in what was called the Flats area. It was full and his sound was amazing. I had to get close to see what he was using. Seeing his play guitar on his lap was amazing. As a guitar player trying to figure out licks ,this was amazing to watch .He was flying on his guitar ! The final number was the Hendrix cover Watchtower. I drove home that night thinking I need to close my eyes and listen to guitar. In the 80’s World of hairbands,scale players and funny sounds to me he was something else to see and hear. The real deal. I have since played and recorded for 30 years. He is still one of my most memorable shows and inspirations. Jake in Pa.
Just finished watching the movie Road House with Jeff, staring along side Patrick Swayze and Sam Elliott. Will be airing again on Texas time zone on March 10th at 2pm CMT (327) and 730pm. I loved hearing him play. A TRUE ARTIST!!
What a way to honor your Husband Jeff, and father to your children, a loving and heartfelt note to fans.. I really got on this fb site because I liked his music alot and learned so much more from his fans and the music I got to hear…thank you to you All. What a great legacy.
I saw Jeff way back in mid 90’s at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom just after Cover To Cover came out. It blew me away how tight he and his band were, and the skill he had playing the guitar in the way that he did. I had been following him and his music since 1988 when I heard Confidence Man on the radio and it made me sit up and take notice ! Bought all the music as it came out anxiously awaiting what he would come out with next as each disc was released. Now I keep him and music alive by playing his music at parties and putting on my concert DVDs for anyone who comes to the house and hasn’t seen him before. Rock On Jeff … Rock On !! Rob Muse
…I think I was at that same show at the Casino “Rob”,I think it was somewhere between like 97’or 98′, maybe a bit earlier?? He rode in the Limo I rented, I jammed with him to some Cream CDs after the gig on his Travel Truck/Bus….he was so down to earth and personable….and as good as they get… RIP Jeff -(BAM).
Hi Cristie and Roger,
Just wanted to mention that I not only listen to Jeff a lot and adapt some of his techniques to my playing,I also think of things he has said in the past.
I have several people in my family as well as a two family pets who all are simultaneously slipping away, and I reflect on the time Jeff said philosophically, when queried by a media person about his health challenges, “I’ve had a good run.”
I also recall several instances when Jeff would demonstrate to not take yourself to seriously. The funniest, to me, was when when he altered a line when performing “I’m gonna sit right down and write myself a letter”. He changed a “the” to a “my” so the line became “lots of kisses on my bottom, I’m so happy that I got ’em!
All the best,
scott clydesdale
I was a country music fan PERIOD until I was introduced to Jeff’s music.Nor first I am a Healey fan and a Blues Music 2nd.I love Healey I can see the love and happiness music put in his voice and body.Awesome to watch him as music fills his entire being with love by the sounds running in his body.I thank God for making this beautiful creature and his family for rasing him and sharing him with us God Bless all
I saw Jeff three times in 88-89 and still pull his music out. Somewhere I have a bootleg recording of him playing at the first show I saw him at; Mississippi Nights in St Louis, MO. My band started playing While My Guitar Gently Weeps recently and it was Jeff’s version we pulled up to learn rather than the original. Unbelievable talent, wish he was still with us!
Thoughts with you and your kids at this time.
Love Jeff’s music, hope it is always available for everyone to listen to.
Jeff Healey Is The Ultimate Guitar Legend Since Jimi Hendrix
He Left Remarkable Impact On First Generation & Next One
We All Love Him , We Hope He Will Come Back To Us
We Still Can Hear His Message Of Love,,,Peace Love
And Freedom , Jeff Healey Still Remain Incredible Guitar Legend
Saw Jeff play in SanFrancisco warming up for ZZ Top. An amazing talent, we were so blessed to have him in this world. Hope to see him playing in heaven.
What a curious world now – I love listening to this guy – I thought he died last year or something.. I listen to his show on Jazz 91.1, on just after the Dinner Jazz prgm, which we have become addicted to.
Listening to his prgm Apr. 25, 2018, and Jeff was talking about a gig he was doing – and I realize I am hearing history.. it is a bit surreal. He spoke tonite about Toronto “music nazis” who say no-one wants to hear old Jazz from the 1920’s.. I thought “Damn! I love this guy!…” and just for the hell of it, I googled his name,and found that he had been dead for over 10 years! (I feel like a dumb kid who has just discovered David Bowie… or Townes Van Zandt…) I’m glad they put Mr. Healey’s program on the air – it is fine music. We have to realize what the 1920’s really was – the first time in history where the world made this wild phase-jump from the past into the future – it was wilder and more dramatic than anything since maybe the immediate post-war (“Atomic Cafe”…) world.
Our poor, sad world is so tired and exhausted now – there has been little but bad and sad things happen in the last 20 to 30 years – but listening to the music from the 1920’s and 1930’s shows such a different picture of the future – bad times now, terrible times ahead, but eventually, an amazing bright-white future.
We don’t have this in music now. It’s all either formula, or just mean noise. But when you hear the old stuff, from the 20’s and 30’s, it is just wonderful. Reaches out and touches your cold black heart, no?
Thanx for putting this website up. Between Townes Van Zandt, Tom Petty, David Bowie, George Harrison, Muddy Waters, and all the really old stuff, etc. – the music I listen to – (and now the radio programs also!), it is all dead guys and this high quality stuff… Kinda strange… like being on another planet, and tuning into transmissions from a star-system 100 light-years away – you know everyone you are listening to has already died long ago… sorta Star Trek, or something. I didn’t know that Jeff Healey was blind. I read all these pages on him – fascinating. Glad he has not been forgotten.
Really enjoy his show… my kinda jazz, I guess.
I was just relating a story of how I met Jeff and felt the need to search the web and was taken aback that this the 10 year mark.
Well, the story is that I wondered into the Lakeview Lounge in Chicago, Broadway just off Foster ave which was around the corner from my Mom’s house.
This had to be pre-1985. I sat down at a bar stool in this smallish dive and faced the stage that was ‘behind’ the bar. There he was, this kid playing blues guitar in his lap. His friend was sitting next to me. Jeff was staying with him, he said, and this kid is going places and was going to be big. Huh? Well, he’s definitely good – but, the Lakeview Lounge?
He introduced me to Jeff who was very friendly. Not much really sticks out in my memory except that I asked him why he played guitar in his lap. He said he grew up in a ‘home’ – sounding like not with family, but maybe related to his blindness? Anyway, he said someone came to this place and gave him a guitar, but no one had ever showed him how it was supposed to be held to play it. He just thought that the lap was the proper place and learned that way.
I’d like to know if anyone has heard or knows the same story of learning the guitar and if there’s other Chicago stories from the early ’80’s.
The next time I saw him was in “Roadhouse”. Holy mackerel, that’s that kid! Yes, he was going places indeed!
Very fondly remembering Jeff Healey,
E.
Hi Eric.
It was more than likely post-1985 (but not definitely) as he didn’t really start playing out of the country until after he formed the JHB…
Jeff was given his first guitar at the tender age of 3 by his parents for Christmas. It was a department store acoustic. Jeff’s dad, Bud, had played some Hawaiian guitar and set it up for Jeff to play slide on. It was too big for his lap so it was laid flat on the bed and Jeff stood beside it to play… He played it with a slide for a few years before trying to figure out fingering and then he and Bud reset the action and tuning on the guitar for more conventional playing. At that point, continuing to play with the guitar flat as he’d been doing for some time made sense to his brain (although by then, he was grown enough to play it on his lap). Nothing to do with his blindness or not knowing the “right” way to play… 🙂
~Rog
Awesome man I am ashamed to say I did not know he passed til today ran across angel eyes video.loved him in road house very talented man and very handsome. These stories are awesome I will be reading everything I can and listening to all the music I can find to help keep his memory alive even in a small way
forever loved
Forever Loved and missed. My 3 favorite songs are Like a Hurricane, as the years go by and When the night comes calling. Earliest would be Angel Eyes. God Bless! to the family!
Although I am 12 years older that Jeff was and played guitar longer than Jeff, he was a huge, huge inspiration to me and still is. I admired every note and sound that came from his guitar and voice. I still enjoy looking through Jeff’s sites and watching his videos, but it also still saddens me like the day I heard of his passing. I have been fighting that nasty cancer for 12 years now and hate that disease more than I ever knew I could “HATE”… I can only what a great musician and performer like Jeff would have accomplished if the good Lord would have let us keep him.
Thank you Jeff for all the inspiration, enjoyment, and beautiful music. Keep heaven rockin’ but also remember to take a break now and then to rest in peace!!!
Hello.
Im a 48 year old disabled man in a wheelchair and Im a Jeff Healey fan since See the Light was released. I put off learning guitar because of laziness but since this past Christmas-My Uncle bought me an Epiphone Les Paul Standard Plustop Pro guitar and a Line 6 amplifier I have been trying to learn. I would like to know what Jeffs technique for playing is called? Do you know if there are any commercially available DVD’S that teach his techniques? Or if there are any online resources for his techniques?
Thanks Sheldon Scott.
Hey Sheldon! Thanks for reaching out. Jeff was self-taught. Unfortunately there are no DVDs or online resources that teach his techniques. There may be some out there on Youtube and such, but they have nothing to do with us and we can not vouch for their accuracy.
Wish we could be more help.
All the best Sheldon,
Rog
Roger Costa
The Estate of Jeff Healey
So glad we saw you in Islington in 07. 10 years is short compared to how long into the future you will be remembered.
Here’s a link to a photo I took of Jeff that night. It turned out to be the last show he’d play in London.
Dear Cristie,
Jeff was one of the greatest musician ever, he can seat and play shoulder to shoulder with Jimi Hendrix. But most of all, Jeff Healy was specially touching with his sensibility as he played and also in his relationship with other human being..but you already know that. His music will still play for a long time, and I made it available to my chidren, and now as a GranPa old «pall» of 3 years old (grandson) is able to ask me to put music of Jeff when he cam at home… take care.
One of the most natural blues man I ever had the privilege to have seen live! … I play Jeffs music and it takes me to a better place.
God bless from Iggy in Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire, UK.
Cause you can’t pull the wool over me cause I’m a confidence man
Angel eyes is one of the most beautiful songs I have ever heard. One day it came on the radio while I was driving my daddy somewhere. I looked at him and this big biker guy was just singing away. I did not know Jeff had passed away until this week. I am sorry to hear this. But I know my daddy and Jeff are up there with God and daddy is just singing Angel Eyes as loud as he did that day in the car. thank you Jeff for that song and that very sweet day you had a biker singing a love song. Lol
What about the new music?
Hi Luke. Stay tuned here and on our official Facebook page (facebook.com/JeffHealeyOfficial) for some awesome news in the new year! ~Rog
While the music I have enjoyed most of my life had a blues influence, I guess most music does in some way, it’s just been the last 5 years that I have really learned to appreciate blues, blues/rock music. During that time I discovered Jeff Healey. WOW. What a talented individual. I live in Virginia and have seen where he used to play at The Boathouse at Bessies Place in Norfolk. A venue not too far from me. Damn… my loss. He’s one of many talented blues musicians who have left us that I would have lived to have seen.
Hi Cristie;
I remember skipping class at NSCAD, drinking with the lads at the ‘Delta Hotel’ just before a gig at the Halifax Forum. Well, Tommy may have been heavy maintenance -on the heels of the ‘Steel Road Tour but, ‘hey’ the show must go on. The lobster and beer after the show didn’t agree with him. You were probably the only one there who knew that. I never saw Tommy again. Do you know if he moved back home here?
Sorry Paul. No clue. ~Rog
As a fan I love his music and will always do. Reading about him as an extraordinary empathetic person I wish i would have had the opportunity meeting him personally. Nice to see he s still remembered and being loved by so many people in addition to his wife, kids and family. WK, Frankfurt area, Germany
Thinking of you… thank you for the music❤️
Miss and admire him still
Hey Jeff.
Just wanted to say hey man how’s it goin’?
I miss ya brother..
As a fellow musician I knew the very first time I ever heard you that you were someone very unique and very special.
You’ll live on in my memories until my time on earth has ended and get to come to see you perform again in the afterlife.
I watch concerts of you singing your lungs out and ripping the strings up on stage.
To me you are forevermore.
Luv ya Jeff.
Miss ya brother and fellow musician.
Jeff played at our family hotel in Victoria, wow, sell out crowd, best blues and rock music I’ve heard for a long time! No equal in watching him perform! We’ll all miss his music! RIP!
Not only one of the best guitar players ever, but one of the most soulful voices every recorded. Jeff had one hell of a vision, and he made it real. And the rest of us can enjoy it forever.
Love Jeff’s Music, performance on film.
Miss him most!
God bless him and his family.
I may be stupid, but I heard only yesterday that Jeff passed away.
While I was a fan from the day Can You See The Light was released, somehow I lost track due to many reasons. Anyway,
Yesterday I saw a video of a musician performing while she was wearing a Jeff Healey shirt. I liked that
But, in the YT comments I read that Jeff passed away many years ago. I was shocked!
What a loss!!
May God bless Jeff and his family
Hello to everyone , I am from Turkey. After watching the movie Road House 30 years ago , I became a Jeff Healey fan.Time to time I listen to his great songs at youtube. I am very sad that he passed away but we , his fans always remember this talented great guitarist.RIP Jeff Healey . My respects and love to his loving family.
Comment Jeff siempre estara en el corazon de todos. Nos dejo un gran legado con su musica y videos. Recuerdos y saludos desde España.
Jeff was a brilliant talent.
Never forgotten…
Magic Steve…
I watched Road House for the like 5th time. I love that movie, and love his music in the movie. He will be missed❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Gone to soon, but will never be forgotten, truly one of Canada’s great musicians! R I P Jeff
The world was a better place with Jeff in it. Now, Heaven is a better place because Jeff is there. We all have something wonderful to look forward to knowing he is there playing for his fans, both old and new. R.I.P Jeff, until we meet again.
Tuve la suerte de ver en vivo a Jeff junto a su banda, en los 90, en mi pais , Argentina, la unica vez que vino, un amigo nos habia pasado el disco Feel This y enloquecimos, cuando viaje de vacaciones a EEUU, me traje los dos discos anteriores , aqui no se conseguian facilmente, amamos a jeff por su musica pero tambien por su ejemplo de vida, sus sensiblidad y belleza humana se percibia facilmente, fue uno de los conciertos mas emocionales que vi en vida, la noticia de su partida hacia el otro plano me dolio muchisimo, pero se que esta en un hermoso lugar…
Gracias por las clase palabras mi amigo… ~Rog
I just finished watching road house and right away when I saw him playing there I said… “That Jeff Healey?!” I was so happy to hear him, see him play I’m from Canada too Vancouver and Toronto ❤️been to both places and I stumbled upon reading this and love it thanks for the tribute and it’s going to be a Jeff Healey night I’ve asked Google to play now ❤️❤️❤️
Hey Cristie, I never met Jeff but always enjoyed his music. As you , I’m a Widow, but my connection with Jeff is through my co-worker. Her name is Eleanor Farrow and she is close friends with Jeff’s sister. I absolutely loved your message of life, time, love and how you share his legacy with your children.. time and days days on by the memories stay still. We still love and live on…. one strong woman to another ❤
When I heard Angel eyes and found out who sang it and wrote the song I was floored, what a beautiful soul Jeff Healey is and a beautiful voice and my gosh what he has been through was just so unbelievable. He can play instruments like no other I wish I could of met Jeff omg I would tell him how much he is loved and appreciated. Thank you Jeff for all you have given this world. I don’t think I’ll ever get a chance to go to your graveside because it’s so far away from where I live in Florida but it’s absolutely beautiful and so was your family I seen pictures of your kids they look just like you. RIP my friend.
Hello
My name is John McEwing and I live in Montreal. I was at the show at Bourbon street west and saw Jeff’s show and I took some pics. I would like to know if you would like a couple of them.
Please let me know
Thank you
Hey John!
We’d love to see them! Please feel free to get in touch with us at contact@jeffhealey.com
Thanks!
Rog
Always a fan of Jeff’s, I was thrilled that he was performing in our area. I don’t remember what year it was, but it was in Perth Ontario. We went to Fiddle Heads restaurant before the concert, and their was Jeff with his friends. I so what to compliment him on his great talent, but didn’t want to bother him. Still regret not telling him. The concert was great.
After years of not hearing Jeff Healey, I for some reason on his birthday this year, 2022, I started thinking of his music. On the 26th it bugged me so much that I looked him up on the internet to see what he had been doing the last few years only to realize the sad sad news. ARG! I am without words and full of tears. His birthday the Christian Catholic world recognizes as special day. Look it up!
I have the sign from Healey’s bar
It’s approximately 6’x8’ and in very good condition
I’ve been storing it inside
I would really like to get it back to his family or a blues museum
If anyone knows who I should contact please let me know
Hello Cristie, my name is Gerry (I’m female). I just wanted to say I’m so very sorry for your great loss in this beautiful man. In 2 days, it will be 15 years since his passing, I know the pain you felt because I lost my Rodger 2 year ago this April and I still can’t believe he is gone after 23 years together. I do hope your son’s eyes are still ok after his surgery. I saw a pic. of him and he looks just like Jeff. Dose he also play on the guitar? I do hope and pray you both are doing good, you were so lucky to have had him in your life. Blessings to you and yours, -Gerry S.
Jeff was an icon! I loved his music! We resided in the same neighbourhood!
I visit his grave all the time, since my parents have been laid to rest nearby. If you would like, I could plant some little shrubs and organize the trinkets and trinkets in a transparent container!
Where’s a person start, I was devastated to learn of his cancer but know what he left was astonishing. Just the fact he learned to play a guitar on his lap but his skill as a vocalist as well. Miss you Jeff it’s still hard to believe you’re gone but never forgotten. We’ll be seeing you.