Jeff “Skunk” Baxter

Playing 2025

About Jeff “Skunk” Baxter

Jeff “Skunk” Baxter, a multi-Grammy winner and member of the Rock & Roll Hall Fame first reached a wide rock audience in 1968 as a member of Boston’s psychedelic rock band Ultimate Spinach.

Baxter eventually moved to Los Angeles, finding work as a session guitarist including guitar on such classics as “9 to 5”, Donna Summers’ “Hot Stuff,” and producing the #1 song “At This Moment” for Billy and the Beaters. In 1972 he became a founding member of Steely Dan. He played on their first three albums, Can’t Buy a Thrill in 1972, Countdown to Ecstasy in 1973, and Pretzel Logic in 1974. He contributed the guitar fills and signature solo heard on the group’s highest charting hit “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number.”

While finishing work on Pretzel Logic, Baxter became aware of Becker and Fagen’s intentions to retire Steely Dan from touring and work almost exclusively with session players. With that in mind, Baxter left the band in 1974 and immediately was asked to join The Doobie Brothers. After bringing vocalist Michael McDonald into The Doobies, Baxter’s jazzier guitar style combined with McDonald’s vocal and songwriting contributions marked a new direction for the band. They went on to continued success with the albums Takin’ It to the Streets, Livin’ on the Fault Line, and particularly 1978’s Minute by Minute, which spent five weeks as the #1 album in the U.S. and spawned several hit singles.

The latest phase of Skunk came with his long-time collaboration with keyboardist and producer CJ Vanston. A wide range of songs were written and recorded representing the diversity of genres of music for which Skunk is known. They then decided that adding vocals, both from Baxter and guest artists would provide even more depth to the project. The result was signing with BMG and the release of “Speed of Heat” in June of 2022. Skunk Baxter hasn’t stopped touring since.

What Passengers Think

Every year it gets better and better. All the hard work by NAHA and the organizers shines through every year making this such an outstanding rock festival at sea. The friendships I have made over the years have made life better all year round and I owe that all to this event. Line-up is always top notch and the non-stop music is what every music fan is desperately searching for, and here you have it, 4 unforgettable, amazing days that stay with you all year long as you anxiously await the next sailing. Bring on 2025!

Vickie, Life changing experience Vickie, Life changing experience

I can honestly say the cruise was incredible – from the music, food, drinks, and service from all involved. Everyone was cheerful and helpful. The Gary Hoey Jam was. The ultimate. I was tired and did not think I would be able to stay awake or stay on my feet all night long. All of the food establishments were very tasty and clean. Considering this is the peak of flu season, I think the ship was very clean and the staff went above and beyond to keep it that way. Great time had by all. Thank you everyone involved.

Patty, Cruise was incredible! Patty, Cruise was incredible!