Skip Chavis - A Legendary Cincinnati Musician Goes Home

Cincinnati's music world lost one of its brightest stars. Legendary guitarist and musician Skip Chavis (Sha-vez) passed away from complications related to lung cancer. The 64 year old musician was considered the consummate musician, a musician's musician, and backbone behind some of Cincinnati's best musical groups. In the 1960's Skip worked as one of the house studio guitarists at Cincinnati's King Records playing the guitar on songs for countless King artists such as The Cliff Lash Orchestra, Hank Ballard and James Brown. In the 1970's, Skip began to tour locally and nationally with his own band: "Westbound". Westbound enjoyed regional success with their soulful ballad "Right or Wrong" which was released on the Fraternity label. From the 80's to the present Skip has performing locally and toured nationally with some of Cincinnati's most popular musical groups including "Ritchie & The Students", H-Bomb Ferguson, Sound Doctrine and Leroy Ellington & The E-Funk Band. The gospel group "Sound Doctrine" just completed recording a new CD "Journey of The Soul" featuring Chavis on guitar. CD release date is pending. On the national stage, Skip's 5-decade career led him to performances with such famous artists as: Delbert McClinton, The Chi-Lites, The Coasters, Little Anthony, Sam Moore (From Sam & Dave), Lou Christie, Deon & The Belmonts, Danny & The Juniors, War, Tower Of Power, The Contours, The Shirrelles, Rufus Thomas and so many more. Skip leaves behind a loving daughter (Taffi Hutchings),1 granddaughter,1 great granddaughter and a host of family, friends and fans.

Added 12 Jun 2026