Interview: R&B Artist XION MCKNIGHT Talks Inspiration Behind New Single "PEACE"

"PEACE" is a melodic R&B track from the talented XION MCKNIGHT and is a song that you're bound to vibe to. On the track, MCKNIGHT is able to showcase his ability to seamlessly blend his ability to both sing and rap, amongst other things.

The rising talent is currently based in Atlanta, Georgia and is someone you definitely should keep on your radar. The artist is talented and skilled at delivering a song with a catchy hook and memorable lyrics, and is also able to consistently switch things up when needed.

The new single is the talented artist's latest efforts and is delivered with an unforgettable cadence. The music he makes is undoubtedly conscious, lyrical, and creative, and his sound can be described as “melodic, spiritual, uplifting, and emotional.”

Listen to the new single "PEACE" below.
https://music.apple.com/us/album/peace-single/1527628546

What city are you from/ Where are you based now?

I’m from Riverdale, GA. Now I’m based in southside of Atlanta, GA.

How did you get your artist name XION MCKNIGHT?

My artist name is “XION MCKNIGHT” and real name is Michael McKnight. I named myself Xion because I was influenced by the meaning of the word Xion, which means “highest point,” — so for me I want to reach the highest point of my career, as well as the highest point of myself as a human being. 

At what point in your life did you decide to pursue a career in music?

I’ve always played around & recorded music since high school but I decided to pursue it as a career when I was 20 because of all the positive feedback I would get from it. 

Has your upbringing played a role in shaping who you are and defining your sound today? If so, how?

Yes. I kind of grew up fast. My life had a lot of ups and downs and you can definitely hear that in my music. You can hear the chaos through the sonics & you can hear the truths and emotions throughout my lyrics. 

How would you describe your sound to readers who may not be familiar with you?

Melodic, spiritual, uplifting, emotional. 

What ultimately inspired you to dedicate yourself to a music career?

I think it was just in me to do so. I kind of didn’t decide anything. It more so just fitted into my lifestyle not to sound cliché but it was sort of like a calling. 

What’s one reason you are passionate about music and what inspires you?

I’m passionate about it because it’s just who am and I’m naturally a passionate person. If I do anything, I like to do it 100% … not halfway. And life inspires me. The ups and the downs, being accepted, being denied. A lot of the little things. 

Who are some of your main musical influences?

Saint Jhn, RMR, Travis Scott, The Weeknd, Toro y Moi, Thug & Future.

What are some of your music career goals for the future?

To influence kids who are just like me. I want the message to be clear that no matter what you go through or who’s against you with the right heart you can always end up on top. 

Tell us about your upcoming song “PEACE.” What is it about? When’s it dropping?

I’m dropping a song this Friday called “PEACE” and it’s mainly about the things I’ve been through in life. The things I’ve experience that ultimately made me, me. It’s a single to an upcoming project that I have coming out called “BE AWARE” which relates to the time we’re living now. I’m telling people to basically be aware of that. Be aware of who you are and be aware of the things you put out to the universe because it could either have a positive or negative affect. That will be coming out around Halloween.

The last project I put out was called “OG MEEZY” which is my alter ego. It’s a transformation from who I was in the past to who I am now. 

What message do you hope fans take away from your music?

Don’t give up. Don’t listen to what nobody else talking about. Just focus on you and your vision and always remain positive.

Where can we follow you on social media?

Follow me on Instagram: @xionmcknight and Twitter: @mikemcknight97.