The life and tragic death of Jeff Buckley: A closer look at the 'Hallelujah' singer's story at age 30

It's Never Over, Jeff Buckley is a new documentary on HBO that delves into the life, music, and sudden death of the acclaimed singer-songwriter. Buckley's career, full of promise, ended abruptly in 1997 when he was just 30 years old. His artistry continues to resonate through posthumous releases like Sketches for My Sweetheart the Drunk, leaving fans and fellow musicians wondering what might have been.

Despite releasing only one studio album in his lifetime, Buckleys influence is evident in artists such as Muse's Matt Bellamy and Adele. His journey has been chronicled in several documentaries, the latest being It's Never Over, Jeff Buckley, which premiered on HBO on Thursday, Dec. 4, as part of Bill Simmons' Music Box series. The film gives viewers an intimate look at the man behind the iconic voice.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Jeff Buckley was born in 1966 in Anaheim, California, and grew up away from the spotlight. He was raised by his mother, Mary Guibert, and stepfather, Ron Moorhead, while his relationship with his biological father, singer-songwriter Tim Buckley, was nearly nonexistent. Jeff met his father only once as a child. Tim passed away from a drug overdose at 28.

After finishing high school, Buckley moved between Los Angeles and New York, performing wherever he could. His breakthrough came in 1991 at "Greetings from Tim Buckley," a tribute to his father. This performance marked the beginning of his rise in Manhattan's music scene.

Rise to Fame

In 1993, Buckley signed with Columbia Records and released the Live at Sin- EP. His debut studio album, Grace, followed in 1994 and included his celebrated cover of Leonard Cohens "Hallelujah," now part of the American Library of Congress' National Recording Registry. Buckley toured internationally, captivating audiences with his powerful voice and emotional performances.

The Final Years

By 1996, Buckley sought a quieter environment to work on his second album and moved to Memphis. He regularly tested new songs at Barristers, a downtown bar, performing his last show on May 26, 1997. On May 29, he went out with a friend, Keith Foti, near the Mississippi River. While listening to Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love," Buckley jumped into the river fully clothed. The river's strong currents, worsened by a passing barge, led to his disappearance.

Authorities began a search immediately. Days later, on June 2, it was reported that Buckley was presumed drowned. His body was recovered on June 4 near Beale Street. An autopsy confirmed no drugs and only a small amount of alcohol in his system; his death was ruled an accidental drowning.

Legacy

At the time of his death, Buckley was working on My Sweetheart the Drunk. His mother later helped compile the unfinished recordings into Sketches for My Sweetheart the Drunk (1998), which included the Grammy-nominated track "Everybody Here Wants You." Additional posthumous releases include So Real: Songs from Jeff Buckley (2007) and You and I (2016).

His mother reflected on his dreams, saying he imagined a lifelong career performing and creating music, sharing his soul with the world. Buckley's music continues to inspire, reminding listeners of the extraordinary talent lost far too soon.

Where to Watch

It's Never Over, Jeff Buckley is available on HBO and HBO Max as of Thursday, Dec. 4.

Author: Jackson Miller