Oklahoma Musician Tom Skinner Dies at 61

Tom Skinner, an Oklahoma music mainstay, and red dirt pioneer has passed away. 

Skinner helped to develop the red dirt scene sound in the late 1970s. Since then, he has toured, recorded, and written music on a consistent basis. He spent a brief stint playing bass in Garth Brooks’ band. Most recently he played a weekly Wednesday Night Science Project, inviting local musicians to perform with him. Skinner is a member of the Oklahoma Music Hall of Fame.

Despite failing health, he continued to play up until his death, with his final show taking place on July 1. Skinner was even scheduled to play the week prior to his hospitalization, but was unable to perform.

An event is in the works to celebrate Tom Skinner’s life with local musicians paying tribute to his songwriting.