Brian Kelly McKnight, born on June 5, 1969, in Buffalo, New York, is a renowned American singer-songwriter, record producer, and multi-instrumentalist, celebrated for his contributions to the R&B and soul genres. Raised in a musically inclined family, McKnight's early exposure to music came from singing in his church choir, directed by his grandfather. His family relocated to Orlando, Florida, where he attended Maynard Evans High School and began to hone his musical skills, learning to play multiple instruments and composing original songs.

McKnight's professional music career began when he moved to Los Angeles at 19 and signed with Mercury Records. His debut album, "Brian McKnight" (1992), achieved platinum status, featuring the hit single "One Last Cry." He gained further recognition with the duet "Love Is" alongside Vanessa Williams, which reached number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Over the years, McKnight released several successful albums, including "Anytime" (1997) and "Back at One" (1999), the latter's title track peaking at number two on the Billboard Hot 100.

Throughout his career, McKnight has been nominated for 17 Grammy Awards, a testament to his enduring influence in the music industry, despite never securing a win. His extensive discography includes top ten albums and collaborations with notable artists. Known for his strong head voice and emotive ballads, McKnight continues to be a significant figure in contemporary R&B music.