[3] McKinley has shared stages opening for Tyler Childers, Jason Isbell, Justin Townes Earle, John Moreland, Jamey Johnson and more.

[5] He recorded the album at Sam Phillips Recording Studio with Grammy-winning producer Matt Ross-Spang and professional musicians Ken Coomer (Wilco), Rick Steff (Hank Williams Jr.), Reba Russell (Johnny Cash), Will Sexton, David Smith, and Jessie Munson.

[6] Writing for Fader Magazine, Alex Robert Ross commented on Die Midwestern being, "... a raw but perfectly balanced album laced with existential crises, addictions, and world-weary resilience.

"[7] 2022 brought the release of McKinley's third album, This Mess We're In, produced by Matt Ross-Spang and the same all-star band on his previous record.

McKinley drew writing inspiration according to NPR Music, from "...the loss of several loved ones, including his mother and multiple friends.