A 62-year-old man who was an original member of a local group called the Mezcal Brothers died in a Tuesday morning apartment fire. Mark Simpkins was a guitar player for the group, which was inducted into the Nebraska Music Hall of Fame in 2016.
In a Facebook post former bandmate and bass player Charlie Johnson paid tribute to Simpkins. “I am shocked and saddened to learn about the passing of my friend. “As a renowned guitarist, his contributions will be greatly missed. Rest in peace, Mark.”
Simpkins was a member in the early 2000’s The Mezcal Brothers are a rockabilly/roots-rock band from Lincoln. It was formed in 1998 by brothers Gerardo and Tony Meza. The Mezcal Brothers are still active and perform in Nebraska and on tour.
LFR says Simpkins was found dead on a couch in a basement apartment near 14th and ‘H’ Street. The cause of the fire is not yet known.
(Photo: Mezcal Brothers Facebook Page)