Growing up, his father had a substantial record collection and his mother played piano, nurturing his interest in music.
[1] In 1996, he began playing music with his brother Andrew and childhood friend Richard Wouters, ultimately leading to the creation of Civil Twilight.
[2] McKellar moved to Los Angeles, California in 2005, working various odd jobs before relocating to Nashville, Tennessee in 2008.
[3] As a member of Civil Twilight, he has shared the stage with Young the Giant, Florence + the Machine, Smashing Pumpkins, Jimmy Eat World, Silversun Pickups, and Of Monsters and Men.
His music has been featured in many TV spots, including One Tree Hill, House, Star-Crossed, and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles.