Richard Tobin McDonough, known as Dick McDonough, was an influential American jazz guitarist and banjoist born on July 30, 1904, in New York City. He began his musical journey in high school, playing the banjo and mandolin. McDonough further honed his skills while attending Georgetown University, where he performed professionally at weekend dances and led a band. After college, he attended Columbia Law School and played with various bands in New York City.

McDonough's professional career took off in the 1920s when he played banjo with Red Nichols in 1927 and soon transitioned to the guitar, which became his primary instrument. He was known for his advanced rhythm accompaniment and hot single-string lines, similar to the style of Eddie Lang. Throughout the 1920s and 1930s, McDonough was a sought-after session musician, recording with notable artists and bands such as The Dorsey Brothers, Red Nichols, Miff Mole, and Paul Whiteman.

In the 1930s, McDonough formed a notable duo with fellow guitarist Carl Kress, and they dominated the guitar recording and radio scene in New York. He also led his own orchestra and participated in numerous recording sessions with jazz luminaries such as Benny Goodman, Billie Holiday, and Glenn Miller. One of his most celebrated sessions was the "Jam Session at Victor," where he performed alongside Fats Waller and Bunny Berigan.

Despite his successful career, McDonough struggled with alcohol abuse, which led to a decline in his health. He died of pneumonia on May 25, 1938, in New York City at the age of 33. He was survived by his widow, Dorothy Wiggman. Dick McDonough's legacy lives on through his recordings and contributions to the jazz guitar genre.