Brian Kelly McKnight (born June 5, 1969) is an American singer, songwriter, actor, record producer, radio host, and multi-instrumentalist. Learn more about Brian McKnight, his music career, and his achievements.
Brian McKnight gained recognition for his exceptional vocal abilities, including a strong head voice, an impressive belting range, and melisma. Some of his notable albums include the platinum debut “Brian McKnight,” “Anytime,” and “Back at One.” Throughout his career, McKnight has been honored with 16 Grammy Awards nominations, making him one of the top nominees alongside Zubin Mehta and Snoop Dogg without a Grammy win.
Born in Buffalo, New York, Brian McKnight is the son of Claude McKnight, Jr. and Ruth Elaine Willis. His musical journey began during his childhood as a member of his grandfather’s church choir. From a young age, McKnight explored various music genres and displayed his talent by composing instrumental pieces while learning to play multiple instruments. Forming a band, he started performing his original songs at local venues, eventually leading to a publishing deal at the age of 18.
Mercury Records played a pivotal role in Brian McKnight’s early career. Inspired by the success of his older brother, Claude V. McKnight III, who signed with Warner Brothers subsidiary Reprise Records, Brian pursued his own opportunities. At 19, he inked his first recording contract with Mercury Records subsidiary, Wing Records. In 1992, he released his self-titled debut album, “Brian McKnight,” which reached number 58 on the Billboard 200 chart. The album featured the hit single “The Way Love Goes,” peaking at number 11 on the Billboard Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. It also included the popular ballad “One Last Cry.” McKnight went on to release two more albums under Mercury Records: “I Remember You” in 1995 and “Anytime” in 1997. “Anytime” became a massive success, selling over two million copies and earning a Grammy nomination. The music video for the title track, “Anytime,” directed by Darren Grant, received a nomination for Best Male Video at the 1998 MTV Video Music Awards. In 1997, McKnight recorded “Remember the Magic” for Walt Disney World’s 25th anniversary. Additionally, he collaborated with other artists, including Gerald Levert, Joe, and Boyz II Men, as part of the group Black Men United, contributing to the soundtrack of the film “Jason’s Lyric” with the song “U Will Know” in 1994.