Eddie Skinger
Living Category – Inducted 2001
The gifted Eddie Skinger has always been clear
about his commitment to his vocation. Over the past 62 years, he has
become an accomplished and respected vocalist, musician, arranger and
composer. His talent and ability shine through his music and can easily
be considered as one of the bright lights within the Polka Industry.
Eddie Skinger has performed and recorded for some
of the greatest Polka bands of all time including: Frank Wojnarowski,
Frank Yankovic, The Connecticut Twins, Dick Pillar, Bud Hundenski, Polka
Country Musicians, Happy Louie, Walt Jaworski, Ray Henry, Jimmy Sturr,
Gene Mendalski and The G-Men, Dennis Polisky and The Maestro’s Men, Stas
Golonka, The King Brothers, Chet Dragon, Gene Wisniewski, Charlie Hyatt,
Jas Przasnyski, John Demerski, Joe Toriskie and The Casuals.
Eddie has become affectionately known as “The
Platinum Voice” of Polkas. His smooth style of delivery and mastery of
the Polish language has earned him accolades throughout the Polka
World. Eddie has dedicated himself to the Polka Industry and has proven
to be one of the finest vocalists and musicians.
Eddie’s credits include a recording on many labels
including RCA, Sesac, Dana, Steljo, Windsor, Starr, and Sunshine. He
has written and arranged for Ray Henry, Dick Pillar, Dennis Polisky and
The Maestro Men, Polka Family along with his own orchestra. Some of his
many original compositions include “From Me To You” Polka, “Move It”
Oberek, “My Mother” Waltz, and “Who’s There” Polka. He has had
affiliations with numerous organizations such as the American Federation
of Musicians, BMI, NARAS, Polka Music Clubs United, United Polka
Boosters, United Polka Association, and the International Polka
Association serving as the MC for the 1993 Awards Banquet. He’s also
held the position of the Clerk of the Zoning Board, as well as being the
former Alderman, in New Britain, CT. In addition, Mr. Skinger has been
involved with the American Federation of Teachers, International
Association of Machinists, Pulaski Democratic Club, New Britain, CT. He
has also served as Communicant of St. Patrick’s Cathedral, Norwich, CT,
Foreign Student Exchange Coordinator, and in the U.S. Army. |
