Mike McKenna

Mike McKenna

Known largely for his slide guitar playing, McKenna began playing professionally in the early 1960s in Yorkville where he formed the group Luke & The Apostles.  He has since gone on to international fame.

  • Toronto-born Mike McKenna is a blues guitar player who has played with Luke & the Apostles, Downchild, McKenna Mendelson Mainline, and more.
  • His was the opening band for Jefferson Airplane & Grateful Dead.
  • His unique style of electric slide guitar earned him induction into the Canada South Blues Society Hall of Fame.
Mike McKenna has enjoyed 50 years as one of Canada’s most respected guitarists. His unique style of electric slide guitar  earned him induction into the Canada South Blues Society Hall of Fame in October 2013. He is best known for his work in the much-lauded 1960’s band Luke and The Apostles, followed by the equally revered McKenna Mendelson Mainline. In addition, he has played with a number of notable groups including The Ugly Ducklings, Downchild Blues Band, and The Guess Who.

Today, McKenna’s career has come full circle with packed venues of elated fans coming out to once again, hear music from a new version of Luke and The Apostles and McKenna Mendelson Mainline. McKenna is still performing music from some of his past bands, including Mike McKenna and Slidewinder, Diamondback 1974, and the McKenna Gibson Band. In the works is a CD of new, original material featuring him on acoustic slide guitar.

Artist’s links: FacebookWebsite