Ray McKinley, a multifaceted individual, was a drummer and songwriter of great renown, with credits including the iconic compositions "South Rampart Street Parade" and "Big Noise from Winnetka". His educational background was marked by studies with esteemed instructors such as Paul Detroit, Vic Barton, and Earl Hatch.
Born on June 18, 1906, or so some sources claim, McKinley began his musical journey at a tender age, drumming in film theatres at just 13 years old. He went on to join a succession of notable bands, including Bill Lustig's Scranton Sirens, Tommy and Jimmy Dorsey's Wild Canaries, and the orchestras of Joe Venuti, Freddy Rich, Ben Pollack, Bob Crosby, Jimmy Dorsey, and Jack Teagarden.
During his illustrious career, McKinley collaborated with a variety of talented musicians, including Nappy Lamare, with whom he formed a touring group, and his own sextet. His military service saw him serve as a drummer in a US Army band during World War II.
As a prolific recording artist, McKinley made numerous records throughout his career. In 1953, he joined the American Society of Composers, Authors, and Publishers (ASCAP) and collaborated musically with the renowned Bob Haggart.
McKinley's impressive repertoire of popular song compositions includes the hits "Big Crash from China", "Hear You Talking", "Big Tom", "March of the Bob Cats", "Big Foot Stomp", and "Smoky Mary", among others.
