McKenzie, born Philip Blondheim, began his career in a very clean-cut folk group called the Journeymen. After recording some solo work, he met up with former Journeyman and then-Mamas & the Papas member John Phillips, who co-wrote "San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Some Flowers in Your Hair)" with him.

Its catchy melody and innocent, wide-eyed hippie altruism gave McKenzie a Top Five smash in America and a number one hit overseas. Despite other recordings, he was never able to duplicate this success as a singer.

After a layoff, he rejoined Phillips in an '80s Mamas & the Papas reunion, and also co-wrote "Kokomo," which became a number-one smash for the Beach Boys in 1988.  ~ All Music