Kingstree resident Willie McKnight is a big fan of “America’s Got Talent.” He never misses an episode of the hit series that airs on NBC each Tuesday. One year ago Willie McKnight and his wife, Denise, were watching “America’s Got Talent,” when Mr. McKnight made a promise. He said to Denise he was going to be on the show the next year. Twelve months later he made good on that promise.
McKnight will debut his talents when he sings his heart out to the nation on June 17. He will stand in front of Sharon Osbourne, David Hasselhoff and Piers Morgan. Morgan was so impressed by McKnight’s audition that during a conversation he asked where he lived. “When I told him I lived in Kingstree, South Carolina, he told me I’d better find a place to stay there because I was going to be there a while,” said McKnight.
The process that led to his qualifying for the spot wasn’t as difficult as one would think. As a matter of fact he didn’t need a recording studio but simply a mic and music. “I recorded the demo in my kitchen,” said McKnight. “I sang Three Times A Lady because it is simple and shows diversity of my vocal range. It also highlights intonation that goes along with singing.”
McKnight is an old hat when it comes to singing. He was taught to sing while being raised as a foster child at Springbank Retreat. As a teenager he played in a band, played percussion at Provi-dence College. Today he can be heard on Sunday morning singing with his choir at St. Ann Catholic Church.
“America’s Got Talent” talent search is open to all ages and showcases performers from across the country. McKnight will be competing for the ultimate prize of a $70 million Las Vegas contract and a million in cash.
McKnight to sing on “America’s Got Talent”
2/23/2010 Michaele Duke
8/21/2010
hello, is this one of the McKnight brothers from I think Lake City... If so, you , your brother and I used to sing together during church service when we were about 11 ish...
If not then I apologize for the insert.. take care regardless and good luck w/ your singing..
6/18/2010
Yeah Willie ,when's your episode real date ? The runoff debate aired.What happenend ?
6/17/2010
Willie? Willie? Willie?, I watched the America's Got Talent, but have not yet seen you. I watched it on Tuesday and last night? are the taping dates wrong? :):):):):):):)
6/9/2010
I am proud of you uncle Willie. I will be watching when you hit the stage.
Love your Neice
Jessica Palmer
6/6/2010
We love you uncle Willie good luck and god bless you.
3/10/2010
That is so awsome you go Mr.McKnight! He represents s.c. to the fullest!
3/6/2010
MY SINGING KARATE MASTER -- I BOW TO YOU AND REMEMBER YOUR DISCIPLINE AND CHI'..TAKE THE SAME WITH YOU ON YOUR JOURNEY TO FLORIDA..WALK SOFTLY AND LET YOUR PRESENCE BE KNOWN..JCM
3/5/2010
WILLIE I HOPE YOU GO AS FAR AS YOU CAN POSSIBLY GO BECAUSE ITS NOT EVERY DAY SOMEONE FROM MY HOME TOWN MAKES IT BIG...CONGRATULATIONS!KINGSTREE SC IS FINALLY ON THE MAP!
2/26/2010
wow im so happy for Mr.Mcknight i remember hearing him sing a luther vandross song a long time ago and i honestly thoght it was luther himself. mr. mcknight is a very nice man and i pray that he wins and gets the very best. We will be rooting 4 you here in sunny florida.Good luck and may god take care of you and your wonderful family.
2/25/2010
i am so happy for mr mcknight. I hope he goes far. this goes to show you, one door may close, but another can soon open.
2/24/2010
Way to go Mr. McKnight!
2/24/2010
I hope you win Willie. In your face school district. Bring Willie back to work!
2/23/2010
That's my bus driver. .....