Michael Brewer of Brewer & Shipley Dead at 80

While exploring a career in the music industry, Michael Brewer worked with songwriters and musicians like Billy Mundi and Tom Mastin. Although finding some success, Brewer found his calling when joining forces with his old friend Tom Shipley. Commanding the stage as the folk-rock duo Brewer & Shipley, the singers used their vocal harmonies to sing about social issues at the time. Spending several years together, the duo gained fame thanks to the hit song “One Toke Over The Line.” While leaving his mark on the industry, Brewer recently passed away at 80 years old. 

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Although 80 years old when he passed, reports indicated that Brewer spent the last few years battling numerous illnesses. While at his home in Missouri, Brewer passed away on December 17th. With the news of his death making headlines, Shipley took a moment to share a picture and honor his late friend. He wrote, “Michael Brewer, my friend of 65 years and music partner for over 60, had to go. I saw him on Saterday at Cox Hospital in Branson and he told me he wanted to go home. He was weak and very tired. They took him home on Sunday and his wife Scarlett called this morning to tell me he was gone.”  

[RELATED: The Higher Meaning Behind Brewer & Shipley’s “One Toke Over The Line”]

Fans Share Their Love For Michael Brewer

While mourning the death of his friend and collaborator, Shipley sought to remember the good times as Fhe added, “So tonight I will raise a glass to Michael and drink to all those years, all those miles, all those songs, and all the heavenly audiences we played for. Go with God my friend. I’ll see you on the other side.”

Fans also took a moment to share their love for not just Brewer but also Shipley. “Peace be his journey. I always loved and still love the music you made together. I hope you don’t mind if I share your post to let others know. Love you Tom.” Another comment included, “I’m so sorry, you were the best friends right up to the end . I’m glad you were there to help him to the very end . Life is just too damn short love you Jan and your family hugs and love.”

(Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)