Singer and Musician Niko McKnight, Estranged Son of Brian McKnight, Dies After Cancer Battle
A somber announcement was made on May 29, via a TikTok video posted by Claude McKnight, brother of R&B star Brian McKnight, confirming the passing of Niko McKnight, a talented singer, guitarist, and photographer, following a prolonged battle with cancer. According to The Grio, the date of Niko’s passing has not been publicly disclosed, nor has his age at the time of his death.
Claude McKnight, in his emotional video tribute, recalled his nephew’s remarkable qualities, stating, "This morning I found out that my nephew, Niko McKnight, passed away. He’d been bravely battling cancer for the past two years or so." The Grio reports that Claude McKnight praised Niko, describing him as "one of those amazing kids – quirky, and curious and ridiculously talented. Amazing singer, amazing guitar player. Had a great eye as a photographer. And one of those kids, at least in my estimation, that you always wanted to be around."
Niko McKnight, born Nikolas, had been in the public eye due to his complicated family dynamics. He, along with his siblings and mother, made headlines several years ago when it was revealed that Brian McKnight had an estranged relationship with several of his children. In a recent statement, as reported by Page Six and cited by The Grio, Brian McKnight referred to his four oldest children – Brian, Jr., Niko, Brianna, and Clyde – as "products of sin," stating that "In order to live a life that you love, you have to get rid of the evil and the negativity – even if that evil and negativity is related [to you]."
While Claude McKnight chose not to directly address the family drama in his video, he did touch on the topic, saying, "I wanted to post this about Niko, about his legacy, about how amazing he is, not about what some of you may have heard about family drama that has existed for quite some time, in our family." He added, "I don’t know exactly what was going on there, I know what I’ve seen. I know what I’ve heard from all parties involved…a lot of things didn’t get resolved." Claude McKnight also reflected on his own potential role in Niko’s struggles, stating, "I know that kid had a lot inside, a lot eating at him for a long, long time. I may have contributed to what happened with him, what I do know is he’s out of pain now. I just want to uplift that young man."
The music industry and fans alike are mourning the loss of Niko McKnight, a talented artist who, despite his complicated family life, left a lasting impact on those who knew him. As The Grio reports, Claude McKnight’s heartfelt tribute serves as a testament to Niko’s enduring legacy.
In the wake of Niko’s passing, fans and fellow musicians have taken to social media to offer condolences to the McKnight family. As the news of his death continues to resonate, it serves as a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of acknowledging the complexities of family relationships. With his remarkable talent and untimely passing, Niko McKnight’s story serves as a powerful narrative, one that will continue to be told and remembered by fans and music enthusiasts alike.
