Died On This Date (April 26, 2006) Danny McKenna / Guitarist For Toby Beau
themusicsover Danny McKenna
April 14, 1952 – April 26, 2006
Danny McKenna was the founding guitarist for Texas rock band, Toby Beau who scored a 1978 hit with “My Angel Baby.” It was a #1 hit on the Easy Listening charts and reached #13 on the overall singles chart. The single would eventually achieve gold status and was recognized by BMI for receiving over 1 million radio plays. Due in part to the success of the single, Toby Beau toured with the likes of Bob Seger, Steve Miller Band and the Doobie Brothers. McKenna left the band before the release of their follow-up album and returned to Texas, got married and had two children. He started a successful business as a luthier, repairing and refurbishing all kinds of stringed instruments for local musicians, as well as others throughout Texas. He also handmade several guitars and instruments of his own invention, such as an electric “J-fiddle” and a hybrid between an electric guitar and a mandolin. McKenna always remained active as a musician and formed several local bands throughout the years, and he was extremely generous when sharing his love of music, often doing free repairs for churches or students who couldn’t afford it. He passed away on April 26, 2006 at the age of 54. – Additional information courtesy of Emily McKenna.
What You Should Own
