Ray McKinley (1910-1995)
I started working as a drummer – musician…at Magic Kingdom…Walt Disney World in 1981.
In 1982…I was hired to play in the 2 - day band at EPCOT Germany. I started subbing in several bands playing a variety of styles. Dixieland Jazz, Polka, Rock, Jazz and concert percussion for convention shows.
There were some very experienced musicians spread about the 2 parks of EPCOT and Magic Kingdom. Sometimes I was a warm body standing on a float…trying to smile. A few times I played Bass Drum in the World Band Parade. In the Florida summer heat…this was brutal for the older musicians.
In college, I played in the Jazz Big Bands. I enjoyed it, but never considered myself a Big Band Drummer. There were several drummers in the World Band and around Orlando / Central Florida that had reputations for that kind of gig.
One day I got a (land line) call from Talent Booking…they needed me for an event. (1986) I’d done some of those things before…they were simple piano bass drums playing for guest as they walked lobby to lobby. It was a tux gig. Show up at this room---at this time. A drumset would be supplied.
This gig was a special event, a private gathering with featured guest Ray McKinley from the Glenn Miller Orchestra. I don’t know how they billed it.
There were more qualified and experienced drummers that played that 4 on the floor style than me. At the time I was really into bebop, not swing.
I met Ray on the bandstand. He was friendly and professional. He played bongos, sang and spoke. My recall memory ends there. I tried to play simple and not get lost in the charts. I guess it was ok.
In 2023+ knowing about Ray McKinley, seeing video of him playing with his band and his amazing musical history, I’m humbled.
My teacher – friend Tommy Thomas (1901-1995) was also teacher-friend to Ray McKinley when Tommy resided in Chicago. Ray McKinley was a talented drummer, writer, entertainer and personality. Youtube videos demonstrate those facts. Ray McKinley wrote many lyrics during wartime.
He is credited with Jimmy Crickets, Bahama Mama, Hoodle Addle, Old Doc Yac. He also received credit for the popular tune “Beat Me Daddy, Eight To The Bar.
These are the events of life that don’t seem like anything, till you get old enough to appreciate them. BaDaboom