M*Knight: Dallas’s Multifaceted Creative Shaping the City’s Culture
Welcome to Deep in the Heart of Dallas! Our latest series highlights stories from Dallas’s Black community, following local creatives as they share their favorite spots, culinary discoveries, and the ways the city fuels their art. Today we feature Chris McKnight—known professionally as M*Knight.
M*Knight hails from Jackson, Mississippi, but has called Dallas home since 1999. As a DJ, photographer, and visual artist, his creative output evolves alongside the city’s dynamic culture.
Tell us about your journey to Dallas and how you tapped into your creativity.
“I moved to Dallas in 1999. Creativity has always been part of me, though I kept it mostly private. In college I’d host parties, but my DJ would arrive late, so I learned to play music myself. I paused DJing when I first moved to Dallas, then resumed after a friend, Frances Jaye, gave me a chance. Since then, it’s been a continuous journey.”
“Photography began when I’d open for other DJs. The downtime after my sets gave me time to shoot—starting in clubs, then street shoots, then incorporating fashion.”
What makes Dallas home?
“Dallas is where I’ve met people who inspire me—Hance Taplin from By Way of Dallas, who encouraged me with T‑shirt sales at Centre, and Frankie from FGIII, who pushed me to perform at Canvas. Their belief in my work has been invaluable. I was born in Mississippi, but I was made in Dallas.”
Describe your perfect day in Dallas.
“Sleep in, brunch at Nova or Henry’s Majestic around 11 a.m., then head to an art event. I follow Daisha of Black Sheep Art Culture, who recommends shows. I recently attended the closing of the Tellin’ Our Own Story exhibition at Neighborhood Store in the Design District, featuring six Black female artists, with my friend Ace DJing. After that, I might hit a day‑party, grab another bite—perhaps at Lounge Here.”
Where are your favorite places to eat in Dallas?
“People’s Last Stand in Mockingbird Station is my go‑to bar where I DJ on Sundays. I also love HG SPLY Co. and Lover’s Seafood Market.”
Tell us about a neighborhood you love.
“I’m drawn to Kessler Park, a mid‑century modern neighborhood built in the 1960s–70s. I dream of a ranch‑style, mid‑century modern home in a place like that.”
What’s your go‑to place to show out‑of‑towners?
“I start with a drive‑by at Big‑T Plaza, then showcase Dallas landmarks like The Cedars for skyline views, and finish at Klyde Warren Park.”
What is your favorite Dallas memory?
“It’s hard to pick one. My nights at PM Lounge, part of The Joule, stand out—when Erykah Badu performed and when I DJed for Ludacris. Those moments embody the city’s energy.”
What are you looking forward to in 2021?
“I’m focused on progressing my art and moving forward. I want to create work that brings me joy.”
To learn more about M*Knight and his latest projects in Dallas, follow @M_Knight77 on Instagram.
