Reichhold Center for the Arts presents the first show in its Foundation series “An Evening with Brian McKnight” at 8 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 26. McKnight will perform his many signature hits on piano solo in a setting that is designed to be up close and personal with the Reichhold Center audience.
Brian McKnight’s signature style is unmistakeable — poignant lyrics, smooth voice and beautifully-styled arrangements. That style has earned him a spot in contemporary music history and staying power more than 20 years since the release of his debut album, “Brian McKnight.”
A Buffalo-native, McKnight began his musical career in the church choir and as a band leader at his high school. By age 19, he signed his first recording deal with Mercury Records. He made an immediate impact on the music industry with a fresh sound that distinguished him from many of his contemporaries on the R&B front. The self-titled CD “Brian McKnight,” released in 1992, peaked on the Billboard chart and spawned the top single “One Last Cry.”
By 1997, McKnight released the CD “Anytime,” which quickly sold more than two million copies and received a Grammy Award nomination. He followed the success two years later with “Back at One” on Motown Records, selling more than 3 million copies.
Other CDs released include “Superhero” (2001), “U Turn” (2003), “Gemini” (2005), “Ten” (2006), “Evolution of A Man” (2009). The recently released CD “Just Me” (2011) contained the hit “Fall.”
His live concerts have consistently earned praise and drawn sold-out audiences — many who are surprised to find McKnight is an accomplished musician, playing keyboard, guitar, piano, trumpet and trombone.
He has been busy outside the music scene, making inroads on Broadway, TV and radio. He earned positive reviews for his Broadway debut in the smash hit “Chicago” in 2007. From 2006 to 2010, he hosted a radio show, “The Brian McKnight Morning Show” with Pat Prescott. He also appeared on the second season of NBC’s “Celebrity Apprentice” and hosted “The Brian McKnight Show,” a late night talk show.
McKnight has three sons and currently lives in Los Angeles, California.
The 2012-2013 Reichhold Center sponsors include: International Capital and Management Company, Virgin Islands Lottery, VI Waste Management Authority, First Bank, Marriott Frenchman’s Reef Resort, VI Council on the Arts and Innovative.
Tickets to the Brian McKnight concert can be purchased at Urban Threadz, Dockside Bookstore, Home Again, Essentric Shoe Boutique or via the box office at 693-1559.
