Brief Profile Overview
| Full Name | Kevin Michael McKeehan |
|---|---|
| Stage Name | TobyMac |
| Birthday | October 22, 1964 |
| Age | 58 years old |
| Born | Fairfax, Virginia, United States |
| Spouse | Amanda McKeehan |
| Children | 5 kids |
| Genres | Christian Hip Hop, Pop, Rock |
| Career Highlights | 7 Grammy Awards, 4 #1 albums |
| Record Label | Gotee Records |
| Net Worth | $10 million |
| Social Media | Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube |
With his infectious blend of hip-hop, pop, and rock mixed with faith-based lyrics, TobyMac has become one of the most successful artists in Christian music. Since going solo after his groundbreaking group DC Talk disbanded in 2000, TobyMac has released seven studio albums and won seven Grammy Awards. His catchy songs and high-energy live shows have earned him a devoted following spanning multiple generations.
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Born in Virginia as Kevin Michael McKeehan, TobyMac grew up poor with his single mother as they moved around frequently. As a teen, he found solace in hip-hop and started rapping and dancing. "Hip-hop gave me a way to express myself and release emotion," he recalled.
After becoming a born-again Christian in 1987, TobyMac infused his lyrics with his newfound faith. At Liberty University, he met Michael Tait and they formed dc Talk – pioneering the fusion of hip-hop and Christianity. They released 5 albums, including 1995‘s Jesus Freak which went RIAA 2x platinum.
Solo Success and Grammy Gold
After dc Talk disbanded in 2000, TobyMac embarked on a hugely successful solo career. His debut album Momentum (2001) hit #1 on the Christian charts and won the first of his 7 Grammys. Over the next two decades, TobyMac honed his infectious, faith-based pop/rock/hip-hop hybrid sound.
- Billboard #1 Christian Albums:
- Portable Sounds (2007)
- Eye on It (2012)
- The Elements (2018)
- Notable songs:
- "Made to Love"
- "Lose My Soul"
- "Move (Keep Walkin’)"
- "Feel It"
In 2010, TobyMac was awarded the Distinguished Achievement Award by the GMA Dove Awards honoring his career achievements. "I‘m very grateful for the people who have supported me through the years," he said. "I want to continue making music that impacts lives."
Family Life
TobyMac currently lives near Nashville with his wife Amanda and their five children – Truett, Moses, Leo, Judah, and Annabelle. His oldest son Truett tragically passed away in 2019 at age 21.
"I have always said family is the most important thing in the world," TobyMac reflected. "The pain we feel from losing Truett is matched only by the love we feel and continue to experience through our other children."
Lasting Legacy
With over 11 million albums sold worldwide, TobyMac has left an undeniable mark on Christian music and pop culture. He has paved the way for other faith-based artists like Lecrae to gain mainstream success. After a remarkable 3-decade career, TobyMac continues sharing his uplifting message and dynamic live performances with fans across generations.