Born in Long Island, New York, he moved to San Diego, California at an early age and has been a fixture on the local music scene there since 1985 when he formed the local cult band, Drop Control.
Although a well established musician in his own right, Keneally is probably most well known as former Frank Zappa "stunt guitarist" and a Zappa 1988 tour band member.
His ascendency to that position is legendary in certain musician circles, based on Keneally's command over the vast and difficult Zappa repertoire. Unfortunately, his stint in the Zappa touring band was short lived with the early cancellation of the 88 tour and Zappa's death in 1993. Keneally moved on from the elder Zappa's band to work with the eldest Zappa son, Dweezil on his solo albums and work released as the band, Z.
Keneally has also released nine albums of solo material since 1992 and has guested or acted as sideman on a wide variety of projects, most notably as part of Steve Vai's touring bands.
He has played guitar and keyboards with Yo Miles!, Wadada Leo Smith and Henry Kaiser's Miles Davis tribute band. He is currently touring as part of the Dethklok live show.
Streaming Radio of all his music
http://www.radiokeneally.com/playing.php?buster=0206242547
I Will
Mike Keneally Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
If I can avoid being killed by a tree I will
The pain of dentistry is a pain I know real well
And if I can avoid being stung by a bee I will
I will
The song "I Will" by Mike Keneally is a humorous take on the concept of avoiding pain and danger in life. The lyrics express the desire to avoid getting stung by a bee, being killed by a falling tree, and experiencing the pain of dentistry. The repetition of the phrase "If I can avoid" emphasizes the importance of avoiding these unpleasant experiences at all costs. However, the repetition of the final line "I will" suggests that despite the desire to avoid these experiences, they may be inevitable in life.
The lyrics can be interpreted in a few different ways. On one level, they can be seen as humorous and relatable. Most people can empathize with the desire to avoid painful or unpleasant experiences. On another level, the song can be seen as a commentary on the human tendency to avoid risk and seek safety at all costs. The repetition of the phrase "If I can avoid" suggests a mindset focused on avoiding any potential harm, even if it means missing out on experiences or opportunities.
Overall, "I Will" is a clever and lighthearted song that explores the human tendency to avoid pain and seek safety in life.
Line by Line Meaning
If I can avoid being stung by a bee I will
I will make sure to prevent myself from getting stung by a bee.
If I can avoid being killed by a tree I will
I will try my best to avoid any potential danger that trees can cause me.
The pain of dentistry is a pain I know real well
I am quite familiar with the discomfort that comes with dental procedures.
And if I can avoid being stung by a bee I will
Avoiding bee stings is a top priority for me.
I will
I am determined to do everything in my power to prevent any unwanted incidents from happening to me.
Contributed by Maya I. Suggest a correction in the comments below.
dave oh
i've been an xtc fan since drums & wires ('79)...
i became aware of mike keneally through his association with frank zappa ('88)...
this is a really beautiful song; to me, it sounds like a new xtc tune...
great words, beautiful music, awesome video...
it's been stuck in my brain for several days now...
I want more for keneally/partridge, please...
dave oh13
GordonTangent
"Wing Beat Fantastic" is just a wonderful record of rich, thoughtful and perfectly executed tunes from Andy and Mike's collaboration. Perfectly executed by Maestro Keneally. Hope there's more coming from these two down the road, and such a joy to have Andy Partridge's special genius finally coaxed back into action!
Gord Light
I love that every aspect of this exists.
Kelvin Wilson
This just has XTC stamped all over it. Wonderful
Jibicus Maximus
Well spotted, I think it's very squeeze too but I didn't realise till said that.
pizzmoe
No wonder he's one of Andy Partridge's favorite guitar players.
John Appleseed
I thought the same thing!
Gily Beck
Astounding!!! I can totally hear Andy singing this! I can't wait to hear this whole album!
greyseal53
Loving this...! I'm a big Partridge and XTC fan and this reallly is evocative - Andy's influence wasn't lost and Mike superb playing is top notch. This song has been haunting me all week...
kidderminsterbro
i love when you reach in your shirt pocket to retrieve your pic for the solo and then return it to said pocket to return to finger picking. my shirts always have a pocket for to carry my pics. lovely composition. peace,rich