Yesterday
jeffhealey.com posted the sad news of the passing of blues and jazz multi-instrumentalist Jeff Healey.
From jeffhealey.com: "March 2, 2008
Guitarist and bandleader Jeff Healey dies in Toronto hospital
Following a lengthy struggle with cancer,
Healey passes away on the eve of the
release of a new blues rock album
Jeff Healey, arguably one of the most distinctive guitar players of our time, died today (Sunday March 2) in St. Joseph’s Hospital, Toronto. He was 41, and leaves his wife, Cristie, daughter Rachel (13) and son Derek (three), as well as his father and step-mother, Bud and Rose Healey, and sisters Laura and Linda."
Healey, blind since childhood came to prominence as a blues guitarist in the '80. Through his unconventional playing style, fiery performances, and role in the hit movie Roadhouse Healey achieved significant crossover success.
In recent years Healey had been performing with a Jazz group and had released several albums. His first blues recording in 8 years was scheduled for release in Canada on April 22.