Shortly after completing high school, Jeff began to gain attention around the Toronto pub and club scene with a three piece band that showcased his incredible talents. The Jeff Healey Band had a monthly weekend gig at Baker Street, on Queen Street East. Jeff soon garnered local attention and people traveled to come and see him play with his band. Record executives came to check out his performances before he eventually signed with BMG Canada and Artista in the USA. His guitar workmanship became legendary with his unique playing style, and he was recruited for a spot in the 1989 motion picture Road House, which starred Patrick Swayze and Sam Elliott as bouncers at a roadside bar. Jeff and his band were regular 'performers' at the seedy club and are featured on its official soundtrack.
Jeff was more than just a gifted guitarist, he was a devoted passionate musician who played trumpet in his own Jazz band, Jeff Healey and the Jazz Wizards, hosted a regular radio music show on CBC, and collected vinyl recordings including vintage 78's, and was reported to have one of Canada's largest private music libraries.
Jeff Healey tragically died in Toronto, Sunday March 2, 2008, after a lengthy battle with cancer. He was only 41. For greater details on Jeff's life and musical career contributions, visit his Wikipedia page: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jeff_Healey
A live DVD/CD box set entitled "Legacy - Volume 1" was released posthumously in 2009 on Arbor Records without Jeff Healey's wife Cristie and his estate's participation. On his website, Cristie Healey discourages support of this product. www.jeffhealey.com
Darktown Strutters Ball
Jeff Healey Lyrics
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You better be ready about half past eight
Now dearie, don't be late
I want to be there when the band starts playing
Remember when we get there, Honey
The two-steps, I'm goin' to have 'em all
Goin' to dance out both my shoes
When they play the "Jelly Roll Blues"
In these lyrics, the singer is expressing their excitement and anticipation for a specific event - the Darktown Strutters' Ball. They inform their partner, affectionately called "Honey," that they will come to pick them up in a taxi around 8:30 PM. The singer emphasizes the importance of being ready and not being late, indicating that this is a special occasion that they don't want to miss.
The singer goes on to explain that they want to be present right from the start when the band begins playing at the Darktown Strutters' Ball. This suggests that the event is a lively affair with music and dancing. The mention of "two-steps" implies a type of dance that the singer is eager to participate in.
The singer's enthusiasm for the event reaches a peak when they exclaim that they will dance so energetically that they will "dance out both [their] shoes." This exuberant expression suggests that the singer plans to fully immerse themselves in the joyous atmosphere and thoroughly enjoy the music and dancing.
Finally, the singer sets the specific time for this event - "Tomorrow night at the Darktown Strutters' Ball." This implies that they have been eagerly looking forward to it and have likely made plans in advance. The mention of the "Jelly Roll Blues" as the music they are particularly excited about suggests that this song or genre holds special significance for them and contributes to their anticipation of the event.
Overall, these lyrics depict a narrator who is thrilled about attending the Darktown Strutters' Ball with their partner. They convey their eagerness to be present from the beginning, their desire to dance energetically, and the importance of enjoying the music, particularly a song called the "Jelly Roll Blues." The lyrics create a sense of excitement and anticipation for this festive occasion.
Line by Line Meaning
I'll be down to get you in a taxi, Honey
I will come to pick you up in a taxi, my dear
You better be ready about half past eight
Make sure you are prepared by eight-thirty
Now dearie, don't be late
My darling, please don't be tardy
I want to be there when the band starts playing
I desire to be present when the music begins
Remember when we get there, Honey
Recall that once we arrive at the venue
The two-steps, I'm goin' to have 'em all
I will thoroughly enjoy dancing the lively two-step rhythm
Goin' to dance out both my shoes
I will energetically dance until my shoes are exhausted
When they play the 'Jelly Roll Blues'
Especially during the performance of the captivating 'Jelly Roll Blues'
Tomorrow night at the Darktown Strutters' Ball
On the following evening, at the Darktown Strutters' Ball
Lyrics © Sony/ATV Music Publishing LLC
Written by: Shelton Brooks
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind