Jamming to Jimmy Buffett’s Songs, Local Surfing Legend Reminisces About the Time He Transformed Singer Jack Johnson’s Life

Surfing and music may sound rare, but legends are equally rare. When this unique combination converges, magic happens! Jeffrey “Peff” Eick, celebrated in local surfing circles, is one such legend. His journey includes riding the waves with iconic surfers and serving as a U.S. Army helicopter pilot during the Vietnam War.

However, Eick’s journey took an unexpected twist when he became instrumental in the musical journey of singer and guitarist Jack Johnson. In 2014, during a live performance in Los Angeles, Johnson introduced Eick, his mentor, who had once taught him to play the guitar. This moment not only showcased their profound connection, but also marked the beginning of Jack Johnson’s remarkable music career.

The Surfing Roots and Mutual Bond

According to EASY READER News, Peff Eick’s journey began as a member of the illustrious Double Deuce Dangler surf crew at 22nd Street in Hermosa Beach. This crew included luminaries like Tim Kelly, Henry Ford, and Dewey Weber. Later, Peff joined Weber’s renowned surf team. His contributions to the surfing community were honored with a place on the Surfers Walk of Fame in Hermosa Beach.

READ MORE: “Can Spot an Idiot”: Colin Jost Recalls How Jimmy Buffett Once Helped Him Almost Escape a ‘Surfing Death’

However, Peff’s life took an extraordinary turn when he served as a helicopter pilot in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. His combat missions, including the infamous Battle of Hamburger Hill in 1969, earned him accolades such as the Bronze Star Medal for heroic achievement and the Air Medal with a V for valor.

It was in the late ’80s when Peff Eick’s path crossed with Jack Johnson’s family. Jack’s parents, Jeff and Patty Johnson, were friends of Peff’s from their Manhattan Beach days. By the end of the decade, Peff had established a residence next to the Johnsons at the famous Pipeline surf break on the North Shore. This serendipitous proximity led to shared barbecues and, inevitably, music. Peff, whose love for music ignited at a young age, had a significant influence on Jack’s musical journey.

Musical Mentorship and the Birth of a Musician

Jack Johnson’s transformation from a budding guitarist to a musician took place under Peff Eick’s guidance. At the age of 13 or 14, Jack picked up a guitar for the first time, and Peff introduced him to songs like “A Pirate Looks at Forty,” “Brown-eyed Girl” by Van Morrison, and “Father and Son” by Cat Stevens.

Jack’s rapid progression stunned Peff, and soon, he was not only playing the songs but also composing his own. Music flowed through Jack effortlessly, and within a year, he had surpassed Peff’s guitar skills. Peff’s influence extended to Jack’s singing as well. Initially shy about his singing abilities, Jack initially doubted himself, but Peff’s advice to sing as if addressing someone across the room ignited the spark. Jack’s voice blossomed, and within a year, he was outperforming Peff on the guitar.

WATCH THIS STORY: Big Challenge for Us Open of Surfing in 2023 After This Brand Pulls Out Their Sponsorship

The profound connection between Peff and Jack, rooted in their love for the ocean, played a significant role in shaping Jack Johnson’s unique musical style. Their shared passion for music and surfing forged a friendship that would forever influence Jack’s career. Peff Eick’s own musical journey began at the age of 76 when he released an album titled “For Posterity.” His songs, including “Sons and Daughters” and “A Pirate Looks at Forty,” resonate with the warmth and wisdom reminiscent of Jimmy Buffett, an artist whom Peff greatly admires.