Andy Mackay

Andrew "Andy" Mackay (born 23 July 1946) is an English multi-instrumentalist, best known as a founder member (playing oboe and saxophone) of the art-rock group Roxy Music.

In addition, he has taught music and provided scores for television, while his CV as a session musician encompasses some of the most noteworthy and recognisable names in the music business.

Life and career

Mackay was born in Lostwithiel, Cornwall, England, and grew up in central London. He studied music and English literature at Reading University, where he played with a band called The Nova Express, formed part of a performance art group called Sunshine with future Roxy PR guru Simon Puxley, and struck up a friendship with Winchester art student Brian Eno.At the beginning of 1971 in January, Mackay became a member of the art-rock band Roxy Music (formed November 1970) after answering a Melody Maker advertisement placed by singer Bryan Ferry; he soon brought Eno into the group to handle "Synthesiser and Tapes". Prior to signing with EG Management, Mackay taught music full-time at Holland Park School to support himself. Initially, guitarist David O'List (from The Nice) was part of the group, but he was replaced by Phil Manzanera in February 1972, just as the band's first album was about to be recorded. Percussionist Paul Thompson completed the band.

Mackay played oboe and saxophone in Roxy Music, becoming known for his Chuck Berry-inspired duckwalk during saxophone solos, notably on the...
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