What happens when you mix world-class technique with wild creative freedom?
You get Myron McKinley! He is the powerhouse pianist, composer, and musical director for Earth, Wind & Fire, who knows how to light up a stage and reimagine music like no one else.
In this episode of the Guided by Imagination Podcast, I had the absolute joy of sitting down with Myron right after watching him blow the roof off a San Diego concert. We dove into his journey from classical beginnings to jazz improvisation, and how imagination fuels every single note he plays.
If you’ve ever felt the urge to pick up your instrument again, or you’re just curious about how creativity unfolds for a musical genius.. you’re in for a treat.
From Bach to Jazz: The Foundation of Imagination
Myron’s musical roots are steeped in classical piano training (think Bach, Beethoven, and Chopin), but his heart beats to the rhythm of innovation. Starting young with music, he describes classical music as his training ground, giving him the dexterity and discipline that later allowed him to break the rules beautifully.
“If you play Bach enough, you’ll have the dexterity. Then it becomes about imagination. Can you bring something different than what’s already written?”
As a kid, Myron was absorbing everything from church hymns to jazz improvisation inspired by greats like Oscar Peterson. And yes, he’s aware that giving a 6-year-old an Oscar Peterson CD was setting the bar real high.
Music as a Language of Life
What makes Myron’s music so moving is that it’s not just technique, it’s a conversation. It’s storytelling. It’s lived experiences poured into melody.
“Whatever you’ve experienced in life, that’s gonna come out in your music.”
Whether he’s transforming a song like “Fancy” into a waltz-infused baroque fantasy, or improvising live with Earth, Wind & Fire, Myron’s process is intuitive and emotional. He describes it as shaving down a piece of wood; not overthinking, just feeling until it fits.
Confidence, Creativity & Constant Evolution
One of the most powerful takeaways from this episode?
“Music is the most vulnerable thing you can do. Because you’re bearing everything that you have when you play.”
Even legends keep evolving. Myron shares how even Herbie Hancock continues to reinvent the same songs decades later, proving that creativity never stops growing if you keep playing.
His biggest advice?
Keep going. Don’t stop playing. Because skills don’t stay still, they’re either moving forward or falling back.
For the Creators, Dreamers & Musicians…
Whether you’re dusting off your old guitar or dancing to a rhythm only you can hear, Myron’s message is clear:
Play what you love, and let imagination do the rest.
And if you’re wondering where to begin? Just start with the music that moves you. Let it guide you. And remember, silence is golden; not because it’s empty, but because it’s the place ideas are born.
🎧 Catch the full conversation with Myron McKinley on the Guided by Imagination Podcast
Let us know your favorite moment from the episode! Share your thoughts or tag me on LinkedIn or Facebook to show how you’re bringing more creativity into your life.
