Biography
Born in Lynchburg, South Carolina, and raised inside a mobile home, Rodney O’Neal McKnight—known professionally as O’Neal McKnight—passed much of his early years dancing and performing for peers. Once he reached an age to strike out on his own, he set aside earnings and relocated to New York City. There, a handful of contacts combined with his striking personal style secured him steady work as a stylist for high-profile clients. Unwilling to confine his ambitions to fashion alone, he turned to music, releasing the track “Check Your Coat” in mid-2007. The single included guest verses from Greg Nice of Nice & Smooth and later received a remix from Mick Boogie. Its momentum grew through McKnight’s vocals, which echoed the flamboyant delivery of Michael Jackson and Prince, his accompanying choreography, and repeated placements on television programs. By spring 2008, the full-length debut Prom: 2088 appeared in stores.
Singles
