Encouraged by Biondo and Al Dale, she formed the Eva Cassidy Band in the spring of 1990. "You've Changed"

At first, she felt uncomfortable on-stage, keeping her eyes downcast to avoid making contact with the audience. But as she came to realize how much people enjoyed her music, she gradually evolved into a more confident, outgoing performer.

"Natural Woman"

Later in the year, following a medical checkup, Eva Cassidy had outpatient surgery for a malignant skin lesion on her back."I Need You're Love So Bad"

Early in 1994 she recorded for Blue Note Records and toured with the group Pieces Of A Dream, but, unlike the sessions with Brown, she found this musically un-satisfying

"When It's Too Late"

In January 1996 she appeared at Blues Alley again, a session that was recorded, but when summer came she was unwell. Eva had been experiencing pain in her hip for some time. At the time she was working for a friend in Annapolis on murals in schools cafeterias, and she put the soreness down to too much ladder work.

"Wade In The Water"

Eventually Eva had a number of tests. Although cancer was suspected, only after several more tests, was the diagnosis confirmed: advanced melanoma. She was told that she had three to five months to live.

In September a tribute concert was organized.

It was a moving occasion for all. There were different artists playing all night. Eva Cassidy came out with Chuck Brown at the end. They chose "Red Top" for her, so she wouldn't have to sing much.

"Little Children"

He covered her with his animated style, letting her just stand and join in. It was a warm partnership in song. But then she had someone bring her a stool, and sat down to play and sing, "What a Wonderful World".

It was amazing that she pulled together all that strength to do the number, and of course all who knew her were all stunned.

That was the last song Eva Cassidy sang in public. It was one of those times that those who were there, will never forget. After the concert Eva had a couple of hundred 'thank you' cards made.

"Ain't No Sunshine"

She made a little drawing for it, a heart-shaped smiling face. When friends would visit later, they would find her bent over her pen, handwriting notes on all the cards. She had very little energy and stamina to sit, but she used that time to thank people.

On her Brother Danny's last visit shortly before Eva passed away, he recorded the violin track for

"I know You By Heart".

Later her father, brother and friends played a concert for her outside her bedroom window.

Eva Cassidy died on 2nd November 1996. She was only 33 years old.

"The Waiting Is Over"

The memorial service later that month was in Greenbelt park, Maryland with the sun shining. It was as Eva would have wanted. Her brother played the violin. Friends sang. Over four hundred people came. A most wonderful voice had been stilled.

"You Don't Know Me"