Tom Stephen Responds To Healey Criticism

Former Jeff Healey Band drummer and co-manager Tom Stephen has responded to critical statements made by Jeff Healey's widow Cristie last week regarding the band's three-disc CD/DVD set, Legacy: Volume One, that will be released by Arbor Records on Tuesday.

Healey said that her late husband's estate objected to the release and asked fans not to purchase it. Legacy: Volume One's DVD includes rare performance footage, interviews and music videos. The first CD features The Jeff Healey Band's singles, while the second is comprised of previously unreleased live material.

Here's Stephen's written response:

"It should be clearly understood that I am not and have never been in any litigation with Jeff Healey. To the contrary, I have always tried to be as respectful as possible of both the Healey family and estate.

"In 2005, all parties including Jeff signed contracts and transfers of all applicable rights to these recordings. As owner of this catalog of material, I have a legal and moral right to license this project.

"Despite the fact that the estate does not have any ownership of this material and out of respect for the family, I informed the estate of my intention to license and release these Jeff Healey Band materials. In addition, I offered that a portion of the profits would be set aside for the estate — and I will honor that commitment. Should the release be successful the Healey estate will also profit from royalties.

"As a founding member, I am proud to have been a part of the Jeff Healey Band and believe this project is a respectful tribute to The Jeff Healey Band legacy. I invite fans and others to judge the project by its merit and the music itself."