Mike Brewer (musician)

This article is about the American singer. For the British conductor, see Michael C. Brewer.

Brewer in 1971

Charles Michael Brewer (April 14, 1944 – December 17, 2024) was an American musician. He and Tom Shipley were the music duo Brewer & Shipley. He was born in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.[1]

Brewer formed a duo in Los Angeles during early 1966 named Mastin & Brewer with singer/songwriter Tom Mastin.[1] The group recruited drummer Billy Mundi and bass guitar player Jim Fielder for live performances, opening for The Byrds and Buffalo Springfield during spring 1966. When Mastin left during sessions for an album, Brewer enlisted his brother Keith and the pair recorded a lone single 45 for Columbia Records, "Need You", backed by "Rainbow" (written by Tom Mastin and Brewer before the former's departure). Mundi became employed with The Lamp of Childhood and then The Mothers of Invention while Fielder had also joined The Mothers of Invention (and later Buffalo Springfield and Blood, Sweat & Tears). After recording the single, Brewer met his old friend Tom Shipley and they initiated a duo together.

Their third album, 1970's Tarkio, included the song "One Toke Over the Line," which became an unlikely pop hit in 1971, reaching #10 on the Hot 100.[1]

During 1983, Brewer released an LP, Beauty Lies, of which Dan Fogelberg was the producer. The album has never been released on CD.

Brewer died at his home near Branson, Missouri on December 17, 2024, at the age of 80.[1][2]

References

1. Williams, Alex (December 20, 2024). "Michael Brewer, Whose 'One Toke' Was a Big Hit, Is Dead at 80". The New York Times. Retrieved December 20, 2024.
2. Brodsky, Greg (December 17, 2024). "Mike Brewer of Folk-Rock Duo Brewer & Shipley ('One Toke Over the Line') Dies at 80". Best Classic Bands.

External Links

• Mike Brewer at AllMusic
• Brewer and Shipley.com – Michael Brewer Bio
• Mike Brewer discography at Discogs
• Mike Brewer at IMDb