We mourn the loss of Michael Brewer, a remarkable figure in the music industry and half of the legendary duo Brewer & Shipley, who passed away on Tuesday at the age of 80. His contributions to the music scene have left an indelible mark, and his passing is felt deeply by fans and fellow musicians alike.

The confirmation of his death came through an official press release, which shared that Brewer had been bravely facing multiple health challenges over the past three years. Despite these struggles, his passion for music and his legacy will continue to resonate with audiences around the world.

Brewer & Shipley gained widespread recognition with their iconic Top 10 hit, “One Toke Over the Line,” which debuted as their first single in 1971. This track not only captured the spirit of the era but also sparked controversy, as Brewer recounted in a 2016 interview with UCR. He reflected on how they never anticipated their record label would release it as a single, leading to its meteoric rise on the charts, and the Nixon administration’s attempts to suppress it. This bold move by the duo, which they regarded as a badge of honor, garnered them unwanted attention, as they were publicly labeled as ‘subversives to America’s youth’ by then Vice President Spiro Agnew on national television. Such experiences, although challenging, became a testament to their impact in the music industry and societal commentary.

In addition to their groundbreaking hit, Brewer & Shipley also enjoyed success with other popular songs like “Tarkio Road” and “Shake Off the Demon.” Their music has been covered by a diverse range of artists, including the Byrds, John Denver, Stephen Stills, and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, showcasing the duo’s influence across generations. Notably, “One Toke Over the Line” was even referenced in the opening chapter of Hunter S. Thompson’s renowned gonzo journalism work, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. Formed in 1968, Brewer & Shipley continued to perform live until 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic brought their touring to a halt.

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Beyond his work with Shipley, Brewer made significant contributions to the music of other artists, including providing harmony vocals for Dan Fogelberg’s acclaimed 1981 album, The Innocent Age. In a full-circle moment, Fogelberg later produced Brewer’s solo album, Beauty Lies, releasing it under his own label, further showcasing Brewer’s talent and versatility as a musician.

Heartfelt Tribute from Tom Shipley

Tom Shipley expressed his deep sorrow in a heartfelt statement, reflecting on the profound bond he shared with Brewer, stating, “Michael Brewer, my friend of 65 years and music partner for over 60, had to go. I saw him on Saturday, and he told me he wanted to go home. 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.” This poignant tribute captures the essence of their long-lasting friendship and musical partnership.

Listen to ‘One Toke Over the Line’