We recently connected with Bill McKay and have shared our conversation below.
Bill, thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?
Writing music is a deeply meaningful process for me. My most recent single, “Girl In The Moon”, is special to me because it’s written for my daughter. She’s 12 now, and such a shining light and inspiration in my life. Every song I’ve ever written has some deep meaning for me, but this one felt so special being created. It was truly borne of love!
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I’ve been a musician my whole life. My first professional gig was at the age of 8, singing in a church choir. I was playing band shows in N.Y. from the age of 14, first playing clubs at 16 or so. I’ve also been writing music since I was 13. Having always been a piano player, I got my first Hammond organ in college, and have been a dedicated organ player ever since as well. I embrace all styles of music, and various electric and digital keyboards also, and have performed Rock, Jazz, Blues, Bluegrass, Reggae, Funk, Soul, Country, Americana. I have felt comfortable with everything from introspective ballads to good time party music throughout my life. I pride myself on being a versatile singer, and being able to fit in with many different styles of music. This has allowed me to perform with many different wonderful musicians in my career. My website www.billmckaymusic showcases a lot of the different styles I perform.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
In this age of social media and the internet, it’s really so easy to support music. Just clicking, liking, and sharing peoples music helps support their endeavors. The biggest word of mouth now is social media, and sharing links and playlists helps independent artists so very much. Purchasing art. merch. and music is the biggest support one can offer- obviously streaming music helps, but purchasing tracks, CDs, records, and singles directly from artists and through their websites is far more helpful and supportive.
As a society, we really need to pursue funding for public media, art and music programs, and education. Showing each new generation that art and music are fundamental to human progress and the foundations of love and compassion is a necessity.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
Spreading joy and emotion. Seeing people dance, laugh, cry, and embrace their humanity through your music is the greatest reward of all.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.billmckaymusic.com
- Instagram: @billmckaymusic
- Facebook: Bill McKay
- Youtube: BillMcKay1
