Columbia, Missouri, September 10, 2025
News Summary
Tom Shipley, renowned member of the folk/rock duo Brewer & Shipley, has passed away at the age of 84 in Columbia, Missouri. Known for their classic hit ‘One Toke Over the Line,’ the duo significantly impacted the music scene of the 1970s. Shipley, who co-founded the duo in the late 1960s, continued to perform until recently, leaving behind a legacy celebrated by fans and fellow musicians alike.
Columbia, Missouri: Folk/Rock Duo Brewer & Shipley Loses Tom Shipley at Age 84
Tom Shipley, one half of the acclaimed folk/rock duo Brewer & Shipley, passed away on August 24 at the age of 84 in a hospital in Columbia, Missouri. His son, Marc Shipley, confirmed the news, marking the end of an era for fans of classic rock music.
Shipley was born on April 1, 1941, in Youngstown, Ohio, and spent his final years residing on a 15-acre property near Rolla, Missouri. Along with his musical partner Michael Brewer, he formed Brewer & Shipley in the late 1960s in Kansas City. The duo rose to prominence largely due to their 1971 hit song “One Toke Over the Line,” which peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Originally conceived as a humorous piece meant to entertain friends, “One Toke Over the Line” gained traction after the duo performed it as an encore at Carnegie Hall in 1970. Their performance caught the attention of their record label, whose president insisted they record the song, despite Shipley and Brewer’s initial hesitations. The song was part inspired by Shipley’s personal experience with a recommendation to limit his cannabis use, which he humorously ignored.
Over the years, Brewer & Shipley released a total of nine albums, with 1970’s Tarkio being one of their most notable works. This album not only featured “One Toke Over the Line” but also the song “Tarkio Road.” The duo played a significant role in developing Kansas City’s music scene, co-founding Good Karma Productions, which organized regional concerts. They frequently graced the stage at the Cowtown Ballroom during the early 1970s.
In recognition of their contributions to music, Brewer & Shipley were inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame in 2005. Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic starting in 2020, Shipley continued to perform in the Kansas City area. He is survived by his wife, Jan, and several children and grandchildren.
Michael Brewer, Shipley’s bandmate, and lifelong friend, passed away in December 2024 at the age of 80. Throughout his life, Shipley maintained a deep attachment to Kansas City, identifying himself as a “Kansas City guy.” Their work primarily reflected folk traditions and social commentary, allowing Shipley and Brewer to comment on the cultural landscape of their time.
Legacy and Impact
The impact of Brewer & Shipley on the music scene of the 1970s remains evident, especially with their unique sound that fused elements of folk with rock. Their songs resonated with a generation and continue to be celebrated by music enthusiasts today.
Career Highlights
- Formed Brewer & Shipley in the late 1960s in Kansas City.
- Known for the hit song “One Toke Over the Line” released in 1971.
- Inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame in 2005.
- Produced nine albums, including the notable Tarkio.
Funeral Arrangements and Remembrance
Details regarding funeral arrangements for Tom Shipley have yet to be announced. Fans and fellow musicians alike are expected to pay tribute to his life and contributions to the music industry in the coming days and weeks.
FAQ Section
What caused Tom Shipley’s death?
Tom Shipley died in a hospital in Columbia, Missouri, but the specific cause of death has not been disclosed.
How did Brewer & Shipley become famous?
The duo rose to fame with their hit song “One Toke Over the Line,” which peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1971.
What other songs did Brewer & Shipley create?
In addition to “One Toke Over the Line,” they have a noteworthy album titled Tarkio, which contains other popular songs like “Tarkio Road.”
Where did Tom Shipley live before his death?
Before his passing, Tom Shipley lived on a 15-acre property outside of Rolla, Missouri.
When were Brewer & Shipley inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame?
Brewer & Shipley were inducted into the Kansas Music Hall of Fame in 2005.
Key Features of Brewer & Shipley’s Career
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Formation | Late 1960s in Kansas City |
| Famous Hit | “One Toke Over the Line” (1971) |
| Billboard Success | Peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 |
| Albums Released | Nine albums, including Tarkio |
| Major Events | Induction into Kansas Music Hall of Fame (2005) |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- The New York Times
- Wikipedia: Tom Shipley
- The Kansas City Star
- Google Search: Tom Shipley
- Cleveland.com
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Folk Rock
- Parade
- Google News: Brewer and Shipley
- Best Classic Bands
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
