Kenny

As a legally given first name (rather than a nickname), Kenny first appeared on the U.S. charts in 1929. The name quickly rose in popularity and achieved levels of respectable moderation in term of usage by the 1950s. This coincided with the rising popularity of Kenneth (a favorite mid-century boy’s name). Parents who opt for Kenny over Kenneth are typically more relaxed in their naming styles. It’s like naming your kid Tommy rather than Thomas. Nicknames as independently given first names are nothing new to American culture and Kenny is another such example (Bobby, Jimmy, Johnny, Ronnie, Tommy, Willie). Kenny has done pretty well on the charts all things considered, although his popularity is starting to show signs of wear and tear as we’ve crossed the threshold into the 21st century. We’d be remiss if we didn’t point out the musical cachet this name carries particularly in the country and western circles (Kenny Chesney, Kenny Rogers), as well as adult contemporary and jazz (see famous people named Kenny below). However, every single one of these men were given than name Kenneth at birth and they use “Kenny” as their everyday name.