Doc McKinney

Martin McKinney (born August 27, 1971) is a Canadian-born, American raised record producer and songwriter. Professionally referred to as Doc, McKinney was formerly one half of the former duet (now solo act) Esthero, alongside Jenny Bea Englishman. His work with Toronto artist The Weeknd, whose McKinney-produced mixtapes House of Balloons and Thursday. were freely released in 2011, was met with widespread critical acclaim.

Life and career

Born in Canada and raised in Minneapolis, McKinney grew up in the heart of the Twin Cities indie scene and immersed in its ambience. During his adolescent years, McKinney played in various punk rock and hip hop based groups. While the cities' most influential contributions came out of the 1980s, McKinney was immersed in the music scene of that decade.

McKinney settled in Toronto in 1994, as an aspiring producer. McKinney was introduced to Jenny Bea Englishman – now known as "Esthero" – which led him to becoming one half of the then duo. The introduction was headed up by then EMI Publishing President, Michael McCarty. After co-writing and producing their entire breakthrough album Breath From Another, McKinney carefully transitioned Jenny-Bea into a solo act so he could return to the studio. McKinney went on to produce Res – co-writing and producing her critically acclaimed album, How I Do, alongside Santi White (Santigold). McKinney has since worked with Santi White (Santigold) on various projects, including her 2008 release of her Solid Gold Mixtape.