Girl, you're looking, fine tonight,
and every guy has got you in his sights.
What you're doing, with a clown like me,
is surely one of life's little, mysteries

When that song comes on the radio I think many of us end up humming along whether we realize it or not. And while I possibly have the one of the worst memories for music - I can't remember the lyrics to songs, the names of songs or who sings them - and even I knew who Jeff Healey was. No one who has ever seen him play live or on television could forget how his fingers flew over the guitar which he played piano-style on his lap. This past Sunday Healey's lost his battle with cancer. His battle began at the age of one when he was diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a rare cancer of the eyes that caused him to lose his sight.

Healey gained fame in the late 1980s with the album See the Light and it's hit single Angel Eyes. And who can forget his cover the Beatles' While My Guitar Gently Weeps? Apparently not many as Karen Blundell, A Mother's Thought, and Go Girlfriend link to a YouTube video of it in their Healey memorial posts.

The reaction from blogs has been one of sadness and grief.

He was a wicked guitarist, great vocalist, and had a great sense of humor.

Karen Blundell

What’s not to love about a man who battled cancer his entire life, who lost his sight at the age of one but rose above adversity to claim such a unique and endearing talent.

Rest in Peace Jeff Healey - you’ll be sorely missed.

- Gayla at Celeb Amour

But Jeff Healey lived more in 41 years than some people do in twice that time.
- Laurie at Not Just About Cancer

It was a small outdoor venue and Jeff was the opening band. I got there very early to watch and listen as he warmed up. It was an awesome show. I had originally got my ticket to see ZZ Top and was extra excited when I heard that Jeff Healey was the opening band. BTW, ZZ Top stunk that day.
- Maiden53s Strange Musings

Healey's last album, his first rock album in eight years, Mess of Blues will hit stores in April.

Contributing Editor Sassymonkey blogs at Sassymonkey and Sassymonkey Reads.