Gayelynn Mckinney

Gayelynn Mckinney

Independent, McKinFolk, McKinney Zone, Straight Ahead and Ralphe Armstrong

I began playing the drums at the age of two. My father (Harold McKinney) was a noted pianist and composer. My mother was a singer and pianist. There was music in my house every day. I met many great people at my house, like drummer Max Roach. When I was 10 years old, Max told me to: œremember the melodies of every song. That statement became a very important role in my style of playing drums.

Ive enjoyed touring with some of the greatest names in music and Ive got a couple of Grammy Noms to my credit. Im looking forward to the next adventure in drumming!

Gayelynn
Mckinney's
IN 3

Gayelynn Mckinney's
IN 3

  • WHAT INSPIRES YOU?

    I feel like the next level of playing happened for me when I started touring with Benny Golson and Aretha Franklin. I knew my game stepped up in those moments mainly because it had to.

  • WORDS OF WISDOM FOR THE NEXT GENERATION OF DRUMMERS

    Listening to music new and old. Going to see live music and my fans who give me suggestions and ideas.

  • FAVORITE ZILDJIAN CYMBAL/COMBO

    I chose Vic Firth sticks because they fit me more than any other stick I’ve ever tried.

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