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Hailing from Springfield, Missouri, The Skeletons are a cult favorite in the world of roots rock and power pop—musicians’ musicians whose reputation has long outpaced their commercial visibility. Formed in the late 1970s out of the ashes of local band The Symptoms, The Skeletons built a loyal following thanks to their deep musical chops, sly wit, and seamless blend of rock, country, R&B, surf, soul, and garage-pop.

The core lineup—featuring Lou Whitney on bass, D. Clinton Thompson on guitar, Joe Terry on keyboards, and Bobby Lloyd Hicks on drums—represented a who's-who of the Springfield bar band scene, where tight musicianship and encyclopedic knowledge of American rock 'n' roll history were the standard. Known for their spirited live shows and deep-cut cover choices, The Skeletons could shift from a Buck Owens shuffle to a Booker T. groove without breaking a sweat.

In the 1980s and ‘90s, they became a beloved backing band for other artists, including Dave Alvin, Jonathan Richman, and Steve Forbert, all while continuing to release their own material under The Skeletons and later The Morells (a slightly tweaked version of the same core group). Albums like Rockin’ Bones and In the Flesh! showcase their humor, heart, and range—blurring the lines between tribute and reinvention.

Though they never broke big nationally, The Skeletons are legends in roots rock circles—praised by critics, cherished by fellow musicians, and held up as the real deal in an industry often obsessed with flash over feel. Their legacy is deeply tied to Springfield’s rich but underappreciated musical heritage, where authenticity and craft always come first.