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Jazz 91.9 WCLK | Membership Matters

Jazz Tones Insights: GayeLynn McKinney

Join me Sunday at 3pm on Jazz Tones on Atlanta's Jazz Station 91.9 WCLK when my guest will be GayeLynn McKinney, a multi-genre percussionist and composer.  She is one of the most accomplished drummers in Detroit.  Her father was the legendary jazz pianist and composer Harold McKinney, who once played with Billie Holiday, Sarah Vaughn, and John Coltrane among others. GayeLynn has been playing drums since childhood. After graduating from college, Gayelynn joined forces  with Bassist Marion Hayden and established Straight Ahead, an all female group that performs around the world. Gayelynn's milestones in performing have included opening for Nina Simone, Touring Japan, Detroit Jazz Festival, receiving Kresge Fellowship Honor, and performing with Aretha Franklin at Detroit's Chene Park. She opened for Ray Charles, Roy Hargrove, James Carter, Shelia E and many others. Gayelynn's recent release is McKinfolk: The New Beginning (Detroit Music Factory), which is an ensemble that rekindles and celebrates the music and mentorship of her beloved dad.