Introduction
Jeff Healey was a Canadian musician, singer, and songwriter who gained fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s with his band, The Jeff Healey Band. Healey was known for his unique style of playing the guitar, which he played on his lap while lying flat on his back. He passed away in 2008, but his music and legacy continue to live on.
Early Life and Career
Jeff Healey was born on March 25, 1966, in Toronto, Canada. He was born with a rare form of eye cancer called retinoblastoma, which left him blind at the age of one. Despite this, Healey developed a passion for music at a young age and began playing the guitar when he was three years old. Healey formed his first band, Blue Direction, when he was just 17 years old and began playing in local clubs and bars.
In 1986, Healey formed The Jeff Healey Band, which consisted of bassist Joe Rockman and drummer Tom Stephen. The band released their first album, “See the Light,” in 1988, which included their hit single “Angel Eyes.” The song reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and helped launch the band’s career.
The Jeff Healey Band Members
The Jeff Healey Band consisted of three members: Jeff Healey on guitar and vocals, Joe Rockman on bass, and Tom Stephen on drums. The band was known for their unique sound, which combined elements of blues, rock, and jazz. Healey’s guitar playing was a major part of the band’s sound, as he played the guitar on his lap while lying flat on his back.
After Healey’s passing in 2008, Rockman and Stephen continued to play together in a band called The Healey’s House Band, which pays tribute to Jeff Healey’s music and legacy.
Jeff Healey’s Albums
Jeff Healey released a total of 12 albums throughout his career, including six studio albums with The Jeff Healey Band. Some of his most popular albums include “See the Light,” “Hell to Pay,” and “Feel This.” Healey’s music was known for its unique blend of blues, rock, and jazz, and his guitar playing was a major part of his sound.
Healey also collaborated with other musicians throughout his career, including Stevie Ray Vaughan, B.B. King, and Mark Knopfler. He was known for his ability to improvise and play with other musicians, and his live performances were always a highlight of his career.
Jeff Healey’s Legacy
Jeff Healey’s legacy lives on through his music and the impact he had on the music industry. He was known for his unique style of playing the guitar, and his music continues to inspire musicians around the world. Healey also founded a charity called the Jeff Healey Foundation, which supports music education for children and youth who are blind or visually impaired.
Jeff Healey’s Children
Jeff Healey had two children, Rachel and Derek, with his wife, Cristie. Both of his children inherited their father’s love of music, and they have continued to keep his legacy alive through their own music careers. Rachel is a singer and songwriter, while Derek is a guitarist and songwriter.
Jeff Healey Band Youtube
The Jeff Healey Band’s music can be found on YouTube, where fans can watch live performances and listen to their albums. The band’s YouTube channel has over 40,000 subscribers and features videos of their most popular songs, including “Angel Eyes,” “Roadhouse Blues,” and “While My Guitar Gently Weeps.”
Jeff Healey’s Death
Jeff Healey passed away on March 2, 2008, at the age of 41. He died from sarcoma, a rare form of cancer that had spread to his lungs. He was remembered by his fans and fellow musicians as a talented musician and a kind-hearted person who was passionate about music and helping others.
Conclusion
Jeff Healey’s music and legacy continue to live on, and his impact on the music industry will not be forgotten. He was a talented musician and a kind-hearted person who inspired others with his unique style of playing the guitar. His music will continue to inspire musicians for generations to come, and his charity, the Jeff Healey Foundation, will continue to support music education for children and youth who are blind or visually impaired.
