Music producer/songwriter Samuel "Sami" McKinney passed away on Friday, February 8, 2008 in Los Angeles, California. McKinney, 50, was highly regarded at his craft, and his life exemplified that of a man who chose to live on the fabulous side.

He developed a special insight into working with gifted and talented artists his first career as a hair stylist.  And, although he never pursued it more than for pleasure, Sami was a gourmet cook. He began songwriting in the mid-80s, with artist Desiree Coleman as his first placement.

He went on to write and/or produce a string of hits with Patti LaBelle, Denise Rich, Nancy Wilson, Anita Baker, Santana, Lisa Dalbello, George Duke, Perri Sisters, Lisa Fischer, Laylah Hathaway, Allie Willis, Terry Dexter, Kathy Sledge, Phyllis Hyman and Grover Washington, among others.  His most recent collaborations were with Chaka Khan and Patti LaBelle.

Visitation will be held Friday, February 15, 2008 from 4:00 pm - 8:00 pm at Inglewood Cemetery Mortuary, 3801 W. Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood,  CA  90305/310-412-6811.

The celebration of his life will be held Saturday, February 16, 2008 at 10:00 am at Trinity Baptist Church located at 2040 W. Jefferson Boulevard in Los Angeles, California.

Interment service will be private.

Sami was the sole support for his 85 year old mother, Bernice McKinney, whom he worshipped.  He is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins and hundred of friends, from the around the world, who loved him deeply and will miss him forever.