at 21:15 on April 9, 2008, EDT.
By THE CANADIAN PRESS


Jeff Healey, of the Canadian based Jeff Healey Band, performs in New York's Central Park in this July 1, 2000, file photo. (THE ASSOCIATED PRESS/Stephen Chernin, File)


TORONTO - Randy Bachman, Colin James, David Wilcox and Alannah Myles are among the artists who will celebrate the life of guitar legend Jeff Healey next month.

Jeff Healey's Jazz Wizards will open the May 3 gig, which will also feature former Cream vocalist and bass player Jack Bruce and Deep Purple's Ian Gillan. It will be the first of two shows held in memory of the musician, who died last month after a long battle with cancer.

The second event, to be held the following night, will celebrate Healey's achievements in the classic jazz world. Performers will include Marty Grosz, Brad Kay and Vince Giordano.

Healey's wife Cristie - who helped organize the shows - says she has been touched by the outpouring of support from the musical community.

"This has been a great reminder for Jeff's family and close circle of friends of how many people were touched by Jeff and his music. I think we have assembled an incredible collection of talent, and created two shows that Jeff would love," she said in a statement.

"The shows will provide a great way for his friends and fans to pay tribute to his memory, and support a cause that was so very important to Jeff."

Proceeds from the shows go to the Daisy's Eye Cancer Fund and to the Healey Family Trust.

The May 3 event will be staged at the Sound Academy, formerly the Docks. Jeff Healey's Roadhouse will be the venue the following night.

Tickets for both shows go on sale Friday.


©The Canadian Press, 2008