“San Francisco” singer Scott McKenzie Dead at 73

Scott McKenzie, best known for his hit song “San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair), passed away on Saturday in Los Angeles. McKenzie had been suffering from a nervous system disorder called Guillain-Barre syndrome which had required several hospitalizations in the last few years. A statement on his website said “Scott had been very ill recently and passed away in his home after two weeks in hospital.” McKenzie had also suffered a heart attack several weeks ago contributing to his failing health. Aside from the hit song “San Francisco” written by his friend John Phillips of the Mamas and the Papas, McKenzie also found fame penning the song “Kokomo” made famous by the Beach Boys in the late 80’s. McKenzie stayed active in the music business most of his life even touring with The Mamas and the Papas in the 90’s. As an icon of the hippie movement of the summer of love McKenzie’s voice and talent will surely be missed.