Noel McKay is a seasoned singer-songwriter hailing from Lubbock and the Hill Country of Texas. His musical journey began at a young age, picking up the guitar at nine and performing in local venues by fifteen. A significant early influence was his job at Flying L Dude Ranch, which provided a solid foundation for his burgeoning career.

Noel’s career gained significant momentum after meeting Guy Clark at a festival in Kerrville, Texas. This meeting blossomed into a mentorship that deeply influenced Noel’s music and craftsmanship, especially in guitar building. His partnership with his brother Hollin led to notable success, with their band releasing multiple albums and earning praise from figures like Ray Wylie Hubbard.

After a brief hiatus from performing, during which Noel honed his carpentry skills at Collings Guitars, he returned to the music scene with his solo album “Sketches Of South Central Texas” in 2011. A fruitful collaboration with Brennen Leigh followed, resulting in three albums and extensive touring until 2020.

Noel’s connection with Guy Clark remained significant, even building a cherished guitar under Clark’s guidance. Relocating to Nashville, he immersed himself in the songwriter community, participating in and hosting various songwriter rounds at renowned venues such as The Bluebird Café and the American Post Legion #82.

Over the years, Noel has shared stages with illustrious artists like James McMurtry, David Olney, and Sunny Sweeney, and has performed at prominent festivals and venues worldwide. Two of his co-written songs with Guy Clark are preserved in the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville.

Noel McKay continues to balance his time on the road with stays in Nashville, Austin, and Spain, maintaining his deep connection to the music that has shaped his life and career.