[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 176 (Thursday, December 12, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1869]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                  HONORING THE LIFE OF LARRY MCKINLEY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. CEDRIC L. RICHMOND

                              of louisiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, December 12, 2013

  Mr. RICHMOND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the life and legacy 
of Larry McKinley, a New Orleans radio personality and music promoter 
who for decades tirelessly promoted our city's cherished Jazz music. 
Mr. McKinley recently passed away and while today I am saddened by his 
passing, I wish to pay tribute to Mr. McKinley and his passion towards 
a beautiful and beloved art form.
  Born in Chicago, Illinois, Mr. McKinley attended the Columbia College 
of Broadcasting before moving to New Orleans in 1954. By the end of his 
first decade in New Orleans, he became one of the most influential 
deejays in the city. During the formative years of his illustrious 
career, he earned national notoriety for his distinguished musical 
taste. Atlantic Records' executives credit Mr. McKinley for the success 
of Ray Charles 1959 hit ``What'd I Say'' the label's best-performing 
song of the era.
  In 1959, Mr. McKinley founded Minit Records alongside Joe Banashak, a 
local record-business veteran. He also promoted local concerts by such 
musical superstars as James Brown, Sam Cooke, and the Jackson 5. 
Whenever possible, he shined a spotlight on the talented New Orleans 
musicians broadening their exposure and helping them ascend in the 
music business.
  For these and countless other achievements Mr. McKinley was 
introduced into the Black Radio Hall of Fame, the Louisiana Music Hall 
of Fame, and awarded an OffBeat Magazine Best of the Beat Music 
Business Award. The passion and commitment Mr. McKinley dedicated to 
the national treasure that is R&B and Jazz Music inspires us all. I 
want to join his family, the people of New Orleans, and the music 
industry in celebrating the life of this exceptional citizen.

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