Al Mckay

Al McKay is a celebrated guitarist, songwriter, and producer, instrumental in shaping the sound of funk and R&B, continually performing globally with his Allstars. After joining Earth, Wind & Fire in 1973, Al McKay quickly became instrumental in shaping the band’s distinctive funk and R&B sound. During his tenure, McKay co-wrote some of Earth, Wind & Fire’s most iconic hits, including the international smash ‘September’ and ‘Sing a Song,’ released in 1975, which propelled the band to commercial success. His profound impact was recognized with an induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000 as a member of Earth, Wind & Fire.

Throughout his career, McKay has been a highly sought-after session guitarist, lending his distinctive style to recordings for an extensive roster of artists including Herbie Hancock, Patrice Rushen, Ramsey Lewis, Gene Harris, Celine Dion, CeCe Winans, Dave Koz, A Taste of Honey, Norman Brown, and Incognito. His prolific songwriting also extends beyond his work with Earth, Wind & Fire, notably co-writing ‘Best of My Love’ for The Emotions in 1977, a track that impressively topped both R&B and pop charts. Al McKay’s enduring influence on music is widely celebrated, as evidenced by his inclusion in Spin magazine’s list of the 30 most famous left-handed guitarists, and Guitar Player magazine’s ranking of him among the 50 greatest rhythm guitarists of all time. He remains a vibrant force in the music industry, consistently performing globally with The Al McKay Allstars, continuing to deliver the iconic sound that has defined generations of funk and R&B.