• Comment: Please read WP:BACKWARDS before proceeding with this draft. You have zero references. You should be starting by gathering references and writing what you can glen from them, instead of writing what you know then searching for references later. UtherSRG (talk) 12:27, 21 December 2023 (UTC)

R.J. Knightly
R.J. Knightly behind the scenes of "Black Sheep"
Born
Nathaneil Peet

(1996-04-05) April 5, 1996 (age 28)
Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, U.S.
Other namesKnightley, Robert Lynn
Alma materLiberty University (B.S.) Lynchburg, Virginia
Occupations
  • Author
  • Entrepreneur
  • Musician
  • Songwriter
Years active2009–present
Parents
  • Robert J. Peet (1965-2022) (father)
  • Tonya Peet (mother)
Musical career
GenresHard Rock, Blues Rock, Pop, Country
Instruments
  • Vocals
  • Guitar
  • Bass
  • Drums
  • Keyboards
Labelsn/a
Firefighter career
Allegiance United States
DepartmentVolunteer Fire Department
Service years2021–Present
RankChaplain

Nathaneil R. Peet (born April 5, 1996), better known as R.J. Knightly, is an American entrepreneur, author, musician, Bassist/Rhythm Guitarist, and primary songwriter for Knightly, Jordan’s Creek, and Blackjack Locomotive. He is the CEO/President/and Founder of Harothru Music, Ltd. and Rock N’ Ripp Records (the groups’ Music Publishing, Production Company and Record Label).

Early Life

edit

Knightly was born on April 5, 1996, in Wellsboro, Pennsylvania, a small town known for its picturesque landscapes and close-knit community. He was born to Robert Peet (1965-2022), a carpenter and musician, and Tonya Tilton (1975-present), a dedicated homemaker.

Knightly has an older sister from his father's previous marriage, as well as two younger brothers, Andrew (1998-2011) and Joshua. His family's heritage is a blend of English and Germany ancestry, which contributed to the rich cultural environment in which Knightly was raised.

His upbringing was strongly influenced by his family's religious beliefs, which combined the teachings of Seventh-Day Adventism, Baptism, and Methodism. This unique blend shaped Knightly's worldview and instilled in him a strong sense of faith and community. During this time, he was very active in his church, participating in youth groups and other community activities that fostered a deep connection to his faith.

A proponent of homeschooling, his parents chose to educate him at home from 4th grade through to his graduation from high school. Wishing to continue on this path, Knightly enrolled in online colleges that would allow him to gain working experience, and the necessary education.

Before venturing into the entertainment industry, Knightly gained valuable experience in the professional world. He worked as a Design Coordinator for Tyoga Container (a packaging company), and later as a Utilization Review Assistant (for a Rehabilitation Center). These career experiences provided Knightly with a diverse skill set that he would later apply to his pursuits in entertainment.

Education

edit

Knightly, attended Pennsylvania Virtual Charter School (P.A.V.C.S.). It was during this time he developed a strong foundation in academic and independent learning. Later, He attended Penn Foster College, obtaining his Associate's degree in Business Management before transferring to Liberty University, graduating in 2024 with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration.

Music Career

edit

Knightly's music career began in high school, where he first developed a basic knowledge of music theory. However, his passion for music began earlier. At the age of 12, Knightly received his first instrument - a bass guitar that once belonged to his father. This marked the beginning of a deep commitment to music, leading Knightly to convert the family basement into a dedicated practice space. He would often spend up to 8 hours a day honing his skills.

Both Knightly's father and uncle played a pivotal role in inspiring his pursuit of a music career. Their influence combined with a diverse range of musical inspirations, shaped Knightly's unique style. For pop-oriented and TV theme material, Knightly draws inspiration from artists like 38 Special, Survivor, Kenny Loggins, and Phil Collins. On the heavier side, his primary influences included metal bands such as Ozzy Osbourne, Queensryche, Rush, and Dio.

Business Career

edit

Upon graduating from Liberty University in August of 2024, Peet formed the basic structure for what would become XYZ Enterprises, Inc. Under this structure, Peet would either go on to found, co-found, or assist in structuring XYZ Music, Ltd, XYZ Media, LLC, XY Lawn Services, and Mama y's Catering.

Volunteer Career

edit

In addition to his musical and professional pursuits, Knightly is deeply committed to community service. When he's not engaging in creative endeavors, he dedicates his time to serving with the Knoxville-Deerfield Volunteer Fire Company. His role within the company (Chaplin) is supported by a range of specialized certifications, including ICS-100 and ICS-700 for incident command systems, TIMS (Traffic Incident Management Systems), Hazmat Awareness, and training in Basic Ropes and Rigging, among other certifications.

Equipment Used

edit

Knightly is known for his commitment to supporting small businesses, and this philosophy is reflected in the gear he uses. Throughout his career, he has primarily relied on equipment from Harley Benton, along with custom-built instruments. When performing live, Knightly uses a variety of gear, including a Harley Benton PB-20 SBK, his signature Peet NightShade™ (a Bass & Guitar Combo), and a Harley Benton B-550FL BK. He also incorporates Thomann's Studiologic MP-117 Midi Bass Pedal into his live performances. For amplification, Knightly prefers a combo of the Harley Benton SolidBass 115T and SolidBass 210T, powered by a Harley Benton Block-800B (800-Watt head).

In the studio, Knightly uses his father's J.B. Player (Fender-Precision Bass). His recording setup also includes a Harley Benton SolidBass 300C, Harley Benton's Classic Chorus pedal, and Thomann's Studiologic MP-113 Midi Bass Pedal.

Style

edit

Regarding his solo albums, Knightly's lyrical matter relies heavily on matters relating to Religion, Mysticism, Self-destruction, Sin, overcoming adversity, and the culture of the 1980s. His lyrical influences include Neil Peart, Bob Daisley, and the songwriting partnership of Chris Degarmo and Geoff Tate. Pertaining to his songwriting career, Knightly has stated that he follows a composer's mentality, referencing musicians such as Jim Johnston and Izzy Stradlin as the inspiration for music.

Albums

edit
Title Album Details
Only Business (EP)

Personal Life

edit

Despite being a member of the music industry, Knightly resides in Tioga County, Pennsylvania, with his wife, Allison. The couple enjoys the quiet, rural lifestyle, which in turn, provides a peaceful backdrop for Knightly's creative endeavors.

On January 22, 2022, Knightly faced the loss of his father due to Pneumonia. Knightly has stated that his father's passing deeply impacted his life, work and that it reinforced the importance of family and the values that have guided him.

Knightly is known to avoid conversations about his political leanings. He believes that it is the responsibility of every entertainer to help the general public forget the troubles of the real world. However, it has been noted that he has voted for Republicans, Democrats, and Libertarians.

Discography

edit

Books

edit
Year Title Designation Series Notes
2025 The Angel of Death Novella Andrew Clayton Writing
Upon a Winters Moon Novella Standalone Writing
TBA Shadows of Heaven Novella Andrew Clayton Writing
TBA A Deal with the Devil Novella Andrew Clayton TBA

Music videos

edit
Year Title Artist(s) Role Ref.
2024 "Black Sheep" The Jeremy Edge Project Background Extra [1]

References

edit
  1. ^ Edge, Jeremy (July 24, 2024). "The Jeremy Edge Project - "The Black Sheep" - Official Music Video". YouTube.