Buddy Miles, New Birth, and the sultry Tina Marie. The Commodores’ groove? He’s woven it. And when Graham Central Station hit the stage, James was there, keys blazing. McKinney’s musical palette spans genres. He’s danced with Prince, serenaded alongside Lenny Williams, and funked it up with Bootsy Collins. From James Brown’s iconic screams to the sassy harmonies of the Pointer Sisters, he’s the maestro behind the scenes. Motown magic? Norman Whitfield’s genius? McKinney’s breathed it. The soulful saga of McFadden & Whitehead He’s penned it. Frank Wilson’s melodies? James has sung them. He’s grooved with Freddie Jackson, ignited stages with Chaka Khan, and harmonized with SWV. From Bobby Womack’s gravelly tales to the velvet voice of Vesta Williams, McKinney’s imprint is everywhere. And now? He’s the heartbeat behind Marvin Gaye’s timeless tunes. The force behind Force MD’s. The rhythm that fuels Sherelle and Janice Dempsey. And when the music calls, James McKinney answers—a symphony waiting to unfold.