Usually that type of story refers to a guitar player of legendary acclaim, but in this case it refers to a somewhat quiet guy named Vince McGilvra. For almost 28 years he has been one of the owners of Skippers Smokehouse in North Tampa. This not fancy club has been serving smoked fish and more for years, and will continue to do so. But Skippers has earned their reputation as one of the best blues and music clubs anywhere in the country. The dirt floors of the “Skipperdome” have served as a humorous jab at the great concert arenas of Tampa Bay like the Amphitheatre, St. Pete Times Forum, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, and more. Skippers doesn’t kill you with outrageous ticket prices and formal ambiance. They also don’t cuddle you with air conditioning, cushioned chairs, and reserved seating. But they do provide you with inexpensive prices for food, drink, and shows. And shows they are. The past XX years Vince and partner Tom White have provided Tampa Bay with talent of immense proportion. Many great national and international acts owe part of their success to Skippers – and they still come back to play. With a regular Wednesday Reggae Night and a Thursday Grateful Dead night, Vince and Tom have been having a huge impact on music in Tampa Bay. From Grammy winners to wannabes, they have all had a chance to play Skippers. Their impact has been a lot bigger than just in Tampa Bay. Mostly under the direction of Tom, their booking company has helped clubs, events, and more all across the southeast. Lots of the talent heard on WMNF radio and at their annual Tropical Heatwave, have been playing at Skippers. They have been aggressive in giving new and innovative acts an audience. That audience turned out in force for Vince’s Retirement Party featuring the Johnny G Lyon Band. Their efforts for local and world efforts have not been lost either. From Darfur, to the Humane Society, to Womens Causes, this is one local club that gives and gives. Vince will be a very missed part of the Skippers culture. Gray hair flying, sandals, shorts, and a tie dyed tshirt, Vince kept the club happening. But Not to Fear. Mark Warren has stepped in to assist in marketing. Vince will remain as a co-owner. And Tom White has assured us he is not going anywhere (unless he gets a better offer). Watch for their 28th Annivsary Party in late September. Get more info about Skippers at www.skipperssmokehouse.com



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