'One on One' With Brian McKnight

Brian McKnight is a bonafide musical genius.  The R&B superstar has worked with some of the top artists of the day like Justin Timberlake, Mariah Carey, Rascal Flatts, and Diddy just to name a few.  McKnight has always had a great appreciation for our troops.  He chatted with me about life lessons, his career and why he supports the military.

If you could offer advice to the troops what would it be?

I would tell them to keep doing what they're doing because there are people like me who are so grateful for the sacrifices they make daily.

What is the best advice someone has given you?

My family had this plaque in the kitchen that said, “success comes in cans, failure comes in cant's.”

You sing one helluva rendition of our national anthem.  You seem to have a great appreciation for those that serve our nation.  Where does that come from?

I think it comes from visiting other countries and knowing first hand that this one is the best one in the world. Even at our worst, it’s way better than everywhere else.  Freedom cannot be substituted at any price.

What books/music are you reading/listening to now?

I read about three to four books a month, usually spy novels from either Vince Flynn, Ted Bell, or Ken Follett.

Go Army or Go Navy?

Go Armed Forces period.

Is there a story about a soldier or an encounter with one that deeply affected you? 

I wrote a song called "Red, White, and Blue" after a saw a Fourth of July special about soldiers being constantly away from their families. All you have to do is listen to the words of that song. I really tried to put myself in their shoes.

What dating tips do you have for our men and women in uniform?

Just be yourself.  Honesty really is the best policy.

You always have a million projects going on.  What is your latest?

I do about 100 shows a year all over the world every year.

Any final words to the troops?

Thank you, thank you, and thank you!

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Diana Falzone is a FoxNews.com and Maxim Magazine contributor.  You can follow her on Twitter @dianafalzone.