Skip Friel (pronounced freel) grew up in Virginia Beach and began playing guitar at an early age. Forming a band called 'Fresh Produce' with his brother Randy, he began performing in restaurants at the age of 17.
In his twenties Skip formed a folk rock band called 'Turquoise,' performing in places such as Smackwater Jacks and Tony's Hacienda. The band even experimentd with weddings, though Skip soon learned those were not the best forum for his original songs. He soon broke-out to solo and duo acoustic performances, featuring many of his own songs. The duo was called 'String Fever' and on a regular basis appeared at a venue called Fantastic Fenwick's located in Virginia Beach. Fenwick's was considered the area's live acoustic mecca at that time. Other venues where Skip frequently performed then were Bobby McGee's and Ocean Eddie's. Skip took a break from the performance arena in his thirties to concentrate on a day job in electrical engineering. Eventually engaging in impromptu jam sessions with musician friends, such as Martin Somers and Paul Shufer, the experiences inevitably led to public appearances which gradually became more frequent. The three formed a band called 'Surf Wolf', later changing the name to 'Mystic Mammal' and by 2006 finally settling on yet another name, 'The Resonators.' In 2009 percussionist Bob Simmons was added. Paul Shufer has since moved on to a larger band sound. The Resonators have performed regularly at concerts, clubs and special events since 2003, playing a combination of Skip's original music and cover songs, which the band delivers in it's own personal style.
Followng the release of his debut, all original CD, Twilight Red Sky, Friel was named Winner-2007 Toronto Exclusive Magazine Awards for Best International Folk Male Artist. His songs have received local radio airplay on several stations he was voted runner-up in the 2008 Port Folio Weekly Magazine Music Awards for Best Acoustic/Folk Act and 2009 for Inspirationl Artist.
In 2008 Skip teamed with brother Randy to release Evergreen Christmas. The 16-track collection features six originals penned by the two and some new twists to a few Holiday classics. One track, Evergreens, written by Skip, received Winner-Best International Folk Song-2008 Toronto Exclusive Magazine Awards.
Commenting on his album title, Twilight Red Sky, Skip says, "There is an old saying, 'Red Sky in the Morning, Sailor Take Warning - Red Sky at Night, Sailor's Delight.' Sailor's delight of course meaning fair weather ahead." That's where Skip sees himself in life. He has a wonderful family, some great friends. Friel adds "I'm sailing toward the twilight years of life and it seems to be clear sailing for the foreseeable future."
Supporting good causes through his music remains Skip's priority. In his words, "I look forward to collaborating with other artists in the process. Performing in venues where original music is featured is an increasing focus for me as well."