"You either die, or you keep on burning alive—and I am burning"
I had the privilege of touring twice with this wonderful man, each time for a few magical weeks, with my band Drugstore.
During the drive to our first show with Jeff, everyone in the tour van listened to his album Grace, uncertain what to make of it. The sound was unusual—almost operatic—and unlike anything we’d heard before. Today there are many imitators, but that first studio album received mixed reviews and modest sales; only later did it grow in stature. That first night, watching his live performance, everything clicked, his voice was pure and otherworldly—the voice of an angel. For the next few weeks I spent most evenings mesmerised by his performances.
Jeff was an exceptional musician, singing so effortlessly while playing complex guitar parts showed just how skilled he was. During quiet moments at soundcheck, we’d trade chords like whispered secrets—but it was mostly me who benefited. I remember, he could mimic voices really well and made me laugh so many times, his impressions were charming, quirky, and genuinely funny.
At almost every gig he’d join us on stage to play drums, his little ritual was unforgettable: he’d take a shower, emerge with a towel draped over his head, and quietly sit behind the kit. The audience wouldn’t notice at first—then he’d pull the towel away, and they’d erupt with delight. For more reflections, you might also appreciate the heartfelt thoughts Isabel shared on her blog.
I have many beautiful memories of Jeff and remember him as gentle & kind, with a goofy, playful spirit. What happened to that young man remains profoundly tragic. Love X
Listen
Track 1
Jeff Buckley cover of Drugstore’s debut single ‘Alive’
Lyrics – by Isabel Monteiro
I feel the time is coming
I walk into the night
I don’t mind if the clock is turning
cause I’m going to the other side
you either die or
you keep on burning alive
and I am burning
I walked a long long distance
I’m feeling sore inside
I don’t care if the sky is falling
cause I’ll never get see to the light
you either die or you keep on burning alive
and I am burning.