Kenny MacLean facts for kids

Kenneth Irving MacLean (born January 9, 1956 – died November 24, 2008) was a talented Scottish-Canadian musician. He was most famous for being a member of the very successful band Platinum Blonde.

About Kenneth MacLean

Kenneth MacLean was born in Glasgow, Scotland, on January 9, 1956. He grew up to become a well-known musician.

His Musical Journey

Before joining Platinum Blonde, Kenny was a hairdresser! He played in a group called The Hairdressers. Later, he helped start a band called The Suspects in 1979. He also joined The Deserters in 1981, and they released two albums.

In 1985, drummer Chris Steffler asked Kenny to join Platinum Blonde. Kenny played bass guitar and keyboards for the band. He also helped write some songs for their 1985 album, Alien Shores. He continued to play with the band for their albums Contact in 1987 and Yeah Yeah Yeah in 1990. For the last album, the band was called The Blondes.

Solo Music and Awards

After his time with Platinum Blonde, Kenny MacLean released two solo albums. His first solo album, Don't Look Back, came out in 1990. This album helped him win a SOCAN Award for songwriting. He was also nominated for a Juno Award in 1991 for Most Promising Male Vocalist.

Teaching and Later Years

In 2006, Kenny spent time in Saint John, New Brunswick. He worked as a teacher at a new school called Atlantica School of Music and Film. Kenny also started his own music company, hMh Music, where he was the artistic director. A music academy officially opened in Toronto on September 2, 2008. It offered programs like audio engineering and DJ arts.

Kenny MacLean really wanted Platinum Blonde to get back together after 20 years. He often told the band's lead singer, Mark Holmes, that they should reunite. Kenny believed that "Music doesn't have any rock stars anymore." In November 2008, Mark Holmes invited Kenny to perform with him at the Mod Club in Toronto. They played many of Platinum Blonde's famous songs together.

Kenny MacLean passed away on November 24, 2008, due to a heart-related issue. This was just one day after his performance at the Mod Club. His third solo CD, Completely, was released at a concert only three days before he died.

Discography

Solo Albums

• Don't Look Back (1990)
• Clear (1995)
• Completely (2008)