Births on February 2

Al McKay, American guitarist, songwriter, and producer

Al McKay, born on February 2, 1948, is a highly esteemed American musician renowned for his multifaceted contributions as an exceptional guitarist, a prolific songwriter, and an insightful record producer. His distinguished career spans several iconic eras of American popular music, most notably his instrumental and influential tenure with the legendary funk and soul group Earth, Wind & Fire, and his earlier significant work with The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band. McKay's enduring impact on the funk, soul, and R&B genres is widely recognized.

Early Career: The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band

Before achieving global superstardom with Earth, Wind & Fire, Al McKay honed his unique musical skills as a core member of The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band. This Los Angeles-based funk and R&B ensemble, active primarily in the late 1960s and early 1970s, was celebrated for its raw, energetic sound, tight musicianship, and deep grooves, often featured as the house band for Bill Cosby's "Fat Albert and the Cosby Kids" animated series. McKay's foundational experience with the Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band, where he contributed to tracks like "Express Yourself," provided a robust platform for him to develop the distinctive, percussive, and groove-oriented guitar style that would soon become his widely recognizable trademark and a cornerstone of his future success.

Al McKay's Indelible Mark on Earth, Wind & Fire

Al McKay's most globally recognized and enduring contribution to music came during his pivotal tenure with Earth, Wind & Fire (EWF) from 1973 to 1981. As a lead guitarist and a primary songwriter, McKay was instrumental in crafting the band's signature, genre-defying sound that seamlessly blended funk, soul, jazz, R&B, disco, and elements of African and Latin music into a harmonious and uplifting musical experience. His innovative rhythm guitar work, characterized by its sharp articulation, intricate syncopation, and crisp, clean tone, was central to the band's infectious grooves and distinctive sonic identity. Beyond his exceptional instrumental prowess, McKay co-wrote some of EWF's most beloved and commercially successful anthems. These timeless compositions include the globally recognized classic "September," the uplifting "Sing a Song," the enchanting "Fantasy," and the vibrant "Saturday Nite." These compositions, featured on critically acclaimed and multi-platinum albums such as "That's the Way of the World" (1975), "Spirit" (1976), "All 'n All" (1977), and "I Am" (1979), solidified Earth, Wind & Fire's status as one of the most innovative and successful groups of the 20th century, earning them numerous Grammy Awards and a lasting legacy that continues to influence musicians worldwide.

The Al McKay All Stars: Preserving a Musical Legacy

Following his departure from Earth, Wind & Fire, Al McKay continued his prolific musical journey. Today, he proudly leads his own highly acclaimed ensemble, the Al McKay All Stars. This dynamic group is meticulously dedicated to faithfully reproducing the authentic sound and exhilarating live experience of Earth, Wind & Fire's prolific 1970s and early 1980s repertoire. Comprising a stellar lineup of accomplished musicians, many of whom have direct ties to EWF's legacy or extensive experience in the funk and R&B genres, the Al McKay All Stars ensure that the intricate arrangements, powerful horn sections, soaring vocals, and vibrant energy of EWF's legendary hits, such as "Boogie Wonderland," "Let's Groove," and the aforementioned "September," are performed with unparalleled accuracy, passion, and musical integrity. Their performances are not merely cover shows but a genuine homage to the spirit and profound musicality of a pivotal era, keeping the essence of the original music alive for new generations of fans across the globe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Al McKay

When was Al McKay born?

Al McKay was born on February 2, 1948, making him a significant figure whose influential career began to flourish during a vibrant and transformative period of American funk, soul, and R&B music.

What was Al McKay's primary role in Earth, Wind & Fire?

Al McKay served as a lead guitarist and a primary songwriter for Earth, Wind & Fire from 1973 to 1981. He was instrumental in shaping their distinctive funk, soul, and R&B sound, co-writing many of their most iconic and globally recognized hits.

What notable songs did Al McKay co-write for Earth, Wind & Fire?

Among his most famous co-written works for Earth, Wind & Fire are the timeless global hits "September," "Sing a Song," "Fantasy," and "Saturday Nite," all of which remain enduring staples of classic funk and soul music.

What is The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band?

The Watts 103rd Street Rhythm Band was an influential American funk and R&B group from Los Angeles, active in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Al McKay was a key member of this band, contributing to its raw, energetic sound, before joining Earth, Wind & Fire.

What is the Al McKay All Stars?

The Al McKay All Stars is the acclaimed contemporary band led by Al McKay. This dynamic ensemble is dedicated to authentically performing the classic repertoire of Earth, Wind & Fire from their golden era, preserving the legendary funk and soul group's musical legacy and bringing its energy to audiences worldwide.