Al McKay facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Al McKay
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McKay at Hamar Music Festival 2011
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| Background information | |
| Born | February 2, 1948 New Orleans, Louisiana, U.S. |
| Genres | Funk, jazz, R&B, soul |
| Occupation(s) | Musician, songwriter, record producer |
| Years active | 1960s–present |
| Labels | CBS, ARC, Star Licks, VideoArts (Japan) |
| Associated acts | Earth, Wind & Fire, Phenix Horns, Ike & Tina Turner, Patrice Rushen, Ramsey Lewis, The Temptations |
Albert Phillip McKay (born February 2, 1948) is an American guitarist, songwriter, and music producer. He is famous for being a member of the legendary band Earth, Wind & Fire. In 2000, he was honored by being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of that group. Al McKay has also worked with many other well-known musicians. Today, he leads his own band called the Al McKay All Stars.
Contents
Early Life and Music Career
Al McKay was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1948. He grew up in this city, which is famous for its rich music history. His first professional job as a guitarist was with the Ike & Tina Turner Revue. This was a great start to his music journey.
Joining Earth, Wind & Fire
After working with Ike & Tina Turner, Al McKay became a member of The Watts 103rd Rhythm Street Band. Then, in 1973, he joined the popular band Earth, Wind & Fire. He played with them for many years, helping to create some of their biggest hits. He left the group in 1981.
The Al McKay All Stars
Today, Al McKay performs with his own band, The Al McKay All Stars. They put on a show called "The Earth, Wind & Fire Experience." This show celebrates the music of Earth, Wind & Fire. His band released a studio album called Al Dente in 2001. They also released a live album, Live at Mt. Fuji, in 2003.
Al McKay's Solo Work and Collaborations
Al McKay is a very talented musician who has worked on many different projects. He has played guitar for many other artists. He also produced music for various singers and groups.
Playing for Other Artists
McKay played on several albums by jazz pianist Gene Harris, including In a Special Way (1976) and Tone Tantrum (1977). He also contributed to albums by Patrice Rushen, such as Shout It Out (1977) and Patrice (1978). Other artists he played for include Ramsey Lewis, Herbie Hancock, and A Taste of Honey.
Producing Music
Al McKay also used his skills as a producer. He produced the song "Skip to My Lou" for Finis Henderson III in 1983. He also helped produce The Temptations' 1984 album Truly for You. In 1986, he produced Shirley Jones' album, Always In the Mood.
Later Collaborations
In later years, McKay continued to work with many musicians. He played on Norman Brown's 1992 album Just Between Us. He also appeared on albums by Celine Dion (Let's Talk About Love, 1997) and Dave Koz (The Dance, 1999).
Songwriting Achievements
Al McKay is also a very successful songwriter. He often wrote songs with Maurice White and other members of Earth, Wind & Fire. He is best known for two songs that reached the top of the R&B charts.
Chart-Topping Songs
In 1975, he co-wrote "Sing a Song" for Earth, Wind & Fire. This song became a big hit. In 1977, he co-wrote "Best of My Love" for The Emotions. This song was a huge success, reaching number one on both the R&B and pop charts.
Al McKay's Influence and Legacy
Al McKay is recognized as an important figure in music. His guitar playing style has inspired many other musicians.
Recognition and Awards
Spin magazine included Al McKay in their list of the 30 most famous left-handed guitarists. Guitar Player magazine also ranked him among the top 50 greatest rhythm guitarists of all time. Famous musicians like Lenny Kravitz have said that Al McKay greatly influenced their own music.
