Bass player in the 'Androids', singer, songwriter and lyricist.
Kenny was an innovative bass player, capable of both hypnotic driving bass
riffs and strong melodic lines. He would readily improvise over a simple
guitar piece and transform it into something special. His dignity, stability
and presence of mind were the bulwark of the Androids and his simple
openness and friendliness opened doors for the band which would otherwise
have been closed. Kenny, in his easy manner, persuaded Bruce Findlay,
manager of "Simple Minds" to attend a practice through which the band were
offered gigs with the cult bands "The Fall', "Doll by Doll" and "Robert
Fripp" as well as being instrumental in achieving interviews and airplay on
Radio Forth and critical reviews in various papers.
Kenny was a quiet young man with a strong and independent character. After
the Androids broke up due to musical differences he continued to play and
co-write songs with the lead singer. At one point he was interviewed by
members of the Bay City Rollers; they were offering a tour in Japan with all
its lucrative benefits. He turned down the offer without a backward glance
continuing to play his own original music. He later formed his own band
with, among others, the talented guitarist, Phillip Whittaker.
Tragically, a long term illness made it impossible for Kenny to continue. In
all his life Kenny was never heard to complain about his condition to the
extent that his friends had no real idea that he was ill. He had
participated in it all: On the road, shifting gear at 3 oclock in the
morning, the tough gigs, the long drives, the energetic commitment on stage
and all the knocks in the life of a musician; to the last he remained
affable, easy going, witty, intelligent and good humoured.
Kenny's artistic legacy remains in the form of a few paintings, haunting
landscapes; some fine lyrics and poetry. There are sadly few examples of his
bass playing: some demo tapes and the single 'Robot Riot' (AND 001, 1979),
now a collectors item. For those who knew him personally he is remembered
with deep and abiding affection.
