Dayton, Ohio-raised rapper/songwriter D. Knight’s new project Kids With Ambition is a 12-track body of work that centers on his journey through life. Traversing the unforgiving world as a young black man with hopes and dreams, he realized that nothing is granted. Emboldened by the never-ending struggles and the air of negativity and despondency, D.Knight’s resolve to find his purpose and chase his dreams continues to push him further. The project is produced entirely by AshMatthews, who gifts the rapper with a mix of underground and soulful soundscapes that add colour to his vivid storytelling.

The first track, “The Reassurance,” opens the floodgates of emotions as D.Knight expresses frustrations and at the same time, he holds on to a glimmer of hope. Lines like “And one day, you would penetrate, a lot of niggaz fall short/I pray yu got a different fate to reach the monumental place/Gotta sculpt it out for yourself, you gotta chip away/I’m a young vet that evolved from the beginner phase” underpin the mental struggles to overcome self-doubt and the thick air of naysayers trying to derail his movement. This leads into the uplifting “Late Bloomers” featuring ME3CH. The track is an anthem for the late bloomers, whose pace seems invisible to others, but the slow pace is what leads them to greatness. Next is “Ambitious Kids,” an insightful track that pays homage to those who continue to find their purpose in this game called life. D.Knight’s words of encouragement goes unnoticed as he sings “Cool out and stay up, we just going through life/I know what to do now, do now/ and wake up, tomorrow’s never promised but we not gonna wait up.” The track features singer  Juno on the background vocal duties. “Nightmares” explores the pros and cons of following one’s dreams. The track has a scenic aesthetic that adds to D Knight’s vivid lyricism, which dives into the hard work and mentally draining activities that come with success. Next is the reflective “Smile More” featuring singer Feyth M , who adds a soothing melodic performance on the chorus section. Here, we get to see another vulnerable moment as D Knight reminds us of the down times and how he walks through each day with a smile on his face, even though he is struggling inside.

So far on the project, the production has been crisp and soulful. Ash Mathews sure knows what soundscape works for what topic. From the reflective, solemn to the hopeful, the beats he provided truly complement the overarching topic. “Take It Easy” brings listeners closer to D Knight’s childhood experiences and how they shaped him into adulthood. Over Ash Matthews’ warm guitar-driven arrangement that oozes melancholy, the rapper gets candid as he talks about self-doubt, growing pains and maturity. “Nosebleeds” is an upbeat track that celebrates life and the power of making a way when there is none. Lines like “Focused on the wrong shit, that was for entertainment/Could see the time flying by like it’s been stimulating/Learned early when you got a dream, to get a patience/cooped up in the crib like what it fits, fuck all that waiting” underscore D Knight’s work ethic and never say die mindset. The following track, “Wanderlust Interlude,” is a short semi-auto biographical piece that details his growth, the different characters he met in life who inspired him in one shape or form, while the final track, “We On Right Now,” brings the project full circle on a positive note. D Knight embodies the spirit of a go-getter whose input has paid off, and now he can enjoy the fruits of his labour with the people who stood by him.

Other notable tracks include the aspirational “Perfect Song to Play,” “Sacrifices,” and “Inner Child.” These cuts highlight different moments in D Knight’s life, from finding grace in the little mercies life offers to the sacrifices made to achieve his goals. He gives audiences little snapshots into his life’s travails and successes and much more. (Published on 05/01/2025 by Tayo Odutola)

D. Knight, hailing from Dayton, Ohio, has never shied away from the truth—about life, the grind, or the pursuit of purpose. Over the years, he’s carved out a lane that merges realism with hope, offering a sound that speaks to those navigating the chaos while trying to hold on to their dreams. With his latest release, Kids With Ambition, D. Knight delivers his most personal and polished work yet, doubling down on both message and execution.

The 12-track album kicks off with “The Reassurance,” setting the tone for a project that feels less like a collection of songs and more like a mission statement. “There’s always that side of me that wants to show people what I’m about,” D. Knight says. “But going into this album I wanted to acknowledge and protect my inner child.” That internal reflection plays out across the project as he weaves between hard-earned wisdom and youthful drive, without ever losing his footing.

Musically, Kids With Ambition leans into growth. Tracks like “Perfect Song To Play” tap into a more introspective side, while the energy on “Take It Easy” reminds you just how sharp his delivery still is. And then there’s “We On Right Now,” which ties the whole thing together—bringing the journey full circle with the same fire it began with.

The title feels intentional. This isn’t just an album; it’s a declaration. “Although this album and my last project aren’t connected from a narrative standpoint,” he explains, “I think the title You See How Things Changealone foreshadowed what this album can be from an impact standpoint.” And that impact is undeniable. Whether it’s challenging listeners to see their struggles differently, or simply giving them a soundtrack to keep pushing, D. Knight is pushing for something greater.

Looking back on the process, he admits it wasn’t always smooth. “From a personal standpoint, it was difficult in the beginning because I had to ask myself what it truly meant to reconnect with that inner child. And as we got deeper into completing the album, I felt like I was getting back to who I was again.” That tension—between the grind of adulthood and the dreams of your younger self—drives the album’s most powerful moments.

Still, D. Knight isn’t caught up in comparisons or timelines. “Every experience is unique,” he says. “So I think as far as finding that balance it’s about showing up every day and doing what I can despite the circumstances.” It’s that mindset—steady, rooted, and forward-thinking—that gives Kids With Ambition its staying power.

With five albums in seven years, national TV placements, and accolades like Best New Hip-Hop Artist at the 2022 Buckeye Awards, D. Knight’s story is one of persistence. And with Kids With Ambition, he proves once again that his voice—and his vision—are ones to watch as we move further into 2025. (Published on 05/14/2025 by Swidlife Media Staff)

D. Knight interviews with Pressers Radio!

Q:

In a recent interview you mentioned you'd like to become the soundtrack of the everyday person, why is that important to you?

D. Knight: There's a void that's not currently being filled.

Who's really making music for the everyday person dealing with day-to-day problems?

Whether it's work, family related or even internal issues.

I feel like I'm able to speak to that crowd of people in a relatable manner, and even the younger kids with big dreams that may be on their way to high school right now.

That's what artists like Cole, Kendrick & Drake did for me sol wanna say this is my way of paying it forward.

Q: What does "They Don't Mention The Nightmares When They Sell

Dreams," mean to you?

D. Knight: It's basically my way of saying "all that glitters isn't gold". When I was younger I viewed the music industry as a bright & happy place, but never really knew how treacherous & cutthroat it could be until I got deeper into it. I feel like there's a dark side to the lives we dream of, on some occasions.

Q: How important is Bandcamp as a platform to host your music on, how did you feel seeing it was the best selling Mid West hip hop album?

D. Knight: It was definitely a surprise to see, and also a testament to how dedicated my supporters are. It's one thing for someone to stream a song for a couple minutes, but buying music is basically the highest act of love that anyone can do for their favorite artist. It was cool to see that.

Q: I saw that you uploaded 75 videos to your YouTube, did you ever feel hesitant feeling you might be "over saturating the market" as they say?

D. Knight: Not at all. As an artist, part of what I do involves giving my fans & supporters quality content. And as long as I'm keeping my supporters fed with quality stuff, oversaturating won't ever be an issue.

Q: How was you experience working with Ash at Island Sound Studios, he seems pretty confident about the mixes he was able to provide for you and other artist.

D. Knight: Sadly, I wasn't able to be in Hawaii with Ash when he mixed it. But that would've been such a cool experience if I were able to go! Man he mixed my album in the same studio Kanye did 808s & Heartbreak, like that's crazy! But Ash is incredible, he's mixed all of my projects on streaming platforms and to see him get better and better over time has been incredible to watch. There's really no ceiling for him at all. (Published on 07/23/2025)

“Nightmares” by D. Knight is a confessional unwrapped over a beat that never tries to outshine the pen. Instead, the production lays low—brooding and spacious—giving every bar room to breathe. Knight isn’t just writing lyrics; he’s drawing maps through his memories, pushing listeners to confront their own. His verses pull you into the internal storm—where the trauma still lingers, but the will to keep walking burns louder. It’s the kind of track that doesn’t flinch, even when the subject matter gets uncomfortable.

Hailing from Springfield, Ohio, D. Knight is far from new to the grind. With a catalog that stretches back over a decade, his journey has moved from DatPiff-era mixtapes to modern streaming platforms, all without compromising his voice. Early co-signs and local radio spins built his foundation, but it’s the self-awareness in his writing that sets him apart. From “Routine” to “Life Is Precious,” he’s steadily evolved into an artist whose verses feel lived-in—weathered but clear-eyed. “Nightmares” builds on that legacy, offering a fresh chapter in a career built on truth and reflection. (Published on 05/1/2025, article by Lanzen Tate)

As we move further into the summer, rising artist D. Knight from Dayton, Ohio, releases his latest single, “Late Bloomers,” the first track from his upcoming project, Kids With Ambition. This is his second release of the year, following “Switch,” which dropped a few months ago. Maintaining his momentum, “Late Bloomers” is a brilliant blend of addictive sounds crafted by Ash Matthews, with D. Knight’s impeccable flow tying it all together. The track is beautifully anchored by the passionate hook delivered by both ME3CH and D. Knight.

“‘Late Bloomers’ feels like a centerpiece for the album I’m working on. The second verse is kind of me talking to my younger self in a way that falls in line with the album’s theme. It’s all about me re-connecting with my inner child,” says D. Knight. This introspective approach gives listeners a glimpse into his personal growth and artistic evolution.

The production on “Late Bloomers” is top-notch, showcasing Ash Matthews’ talent in crafting a sound that is both contemporary and timeless. D. Knight’s delivery on the track is confident and polished, and the collaboration with ME3CH adds another layer of depth to the song.

“My last project was mainly something I wanted to put together just to get my bars off. I didn’t aim to focus more so on storytelling, but just a fun collection of songs for my supporters to enjoy,” D. Knight reflects. This time around, he’s aiming for something deeper and more meaningful. “This song relies more on a theme, which requires a more advanced thought process. I think the growth will mostly show throughout the album’s creativity and how we exploit the concept differently.”

As anticipation builds for Kids With Ambition, “Late Bloomers” is a promising preview of what’s to come. D. Knight’s commitment to storytelling and thematic coherence is evident, and fans are eager to see how he continues to evolve as an artist. (Published on 07/24/2024 by Swidlife Media Staff)

(Swidlife Media staff, www.swidlife.com) With You See How Things Change, D. Knight presents listeners with eight captivating tracks that span a runtime of 24 minutes. This collection of songs showcases D. Knight’s commitment to maintaining a high level of musical consistency. Notably, the EP includes previously released singles such as “Regular” and “M.I.A.,” as well as the Luther Suede-assisted track “Game So Cold.”

When asked about the inspiration behind his EP, D. Knight shared, “What really shaped the sound of my EP is the work I’ve been doing with my producers Ash Matthews and Young Sunflower. We’ve built up a lot of chemistry over the past few years, and I really wanted to highlight that on this project.”

But it’s not just about the music; it’s also about the journey that led to the creation of this EP. During its production, D. Knight was navigating through significant life changes, including relocating to Cincinnati a few months ago. This move presented him with the challenge of adjusting to a new environment and finding his place in a city he’d never called home before. As D. Knight put it, “At this point, I’m really just trying to find my way through life and get to a place where I can mainly focus on doing what I love.”

As his music continues to evolve, D. Knight envisions his songs becoming more personal and transparent, evolving into storytelling that resonates deeply with listeners. He describes this project as a “life update,” with some tracks where he’s “just really talking that talk.” While this EP may not solely focus on one theme, D. Knight’s ultimate goal is clear: “I want to be the soundtrack to the life of the average everyday person.”

With You See How Things Change, D. Knight invites us into his world, sharing his experiences and emotions through his music. It’s a project that encapsulates the ever-evolving journey of an artist and a person. (10/02/2023)

(Swidlife Media staff, www.swidlife.com) Dayton, Ohio’s rising artist, D. Knight, is back with a new single titled “Game So Cold.” Following the success of his last release, “Regular,” D. Knight continues to build anticipation for his upcoming EP, “You See How Things Change,” and “Game So Cold” marks an exciting milestone in his discography.

One of the intriguing aspects of “Game So Cold” is that D. Knight delves into new sounds by collaborating with an R&B artist. While his previous tracks have been predominantly rap-heavy, this new single opens up a refreshing, more melodic lane for him. “Game So Cold” strikes a perfect balance, allowing him to showcase his rap skills while embracing the allure of R&B, providing a memorable listening experience for his fans.

In discussing the significance of “Game So Cold” in relation to his upcoming EP, D. Knight reveals, “This song fits my EP well since it is not only me looking in the mirror but also reflecting on how far I’ve come along while observing where I am currently at and being hopeful about what the future holds for me.” The single aptly captures his introspective journey, analyzing his past, present, and projecting a bright vision for what lies ahead.

“Game So Cold” exemplifies D. Knight’s ability to experiment with his sound while staying true to his roots. As his core fans eagerly await the release of the “You See How Things Change” EP, it becomes evident that D. Knight’s music transcends mere entertainment, providing a poignant reflection on life’s twists and turns. (07/14/2023)

(Swidlife Media staff, www.swidlife.com) Following the release of his third album, Make Myself At Home, in late 2022, Dayton, Ohio’s D. Knight has returned with his newest single, “Regular” produced by Ash Matthews. With his captivating vocals and lyrics that are both genuine and sincere, D. Knight quickly distinguishes himself from his peers, showcasing his immense talent and boundless energy.

“Regular” is a bouncy track with high energy and an infectious hook that helps tie everything together. The production by Ash Matthews adds an extra layer of polish to the track that keeps the energy level high throughout the song. D. Knight’s vocal performance is another highlight of the track, with his unique tone and impeccable delivery elevating the already impressive production.

Speaking on the single, D. Knight shared, “Ash Matthews and I made this song on the spot during one of our sessions,” he stated. “The hook came to me almost instantly, and everything else from that point was smooth. This song is for anyone who wants to do whatever they’re passionate about at the highest level while flexing on whoever doubts you,” he added.

“Regular” demonstrates D. Knight’s ability to hold his own in the competitive hip-hop scene and showcases his unique style and talent. The track is a solid representation of his musical prowess and will impress new and existing fans. (04/30/2023)

(Cantly Elliot, www.blazereview.com)

CE: What inspired you to start making music?

DK: I feel like music was something that was always in me. I remember when I was younger, I got a keyboard for Christmas and I would make up raps and freestyle to the sounds I made on there. And even throughout the years I was playing sports, rapping was always something I was interested in perfecting before anyone really knew that was what I loved doing.

CE: We went to high school together for a year and hip-hop music was really expanding at that point. We had Drake, Wayne and Nicki really blowing up Young Money, Wiz Khalifa influenced style our style, Big Sean was on the rise, people questioned groups like Odd Future. What impact did that point in music have on your style?

DK: I’d say a lot of my style is based on early 2010s hip hop. When I was in the early stages of perfecting my craft, I listened to a lot of Big Sean, Kendrick, Cole, Drake, and Wale. That was during the blog era when I was studying and listening to all of their mixtapes, so their rhyming styles definitely laid the groundwork for what I do. Believe it or not, the first rapper who truly influenced the way I rapped was Tha Joker. When he came out I thought his punchline game was so crazy! But over time, the artists I mentioned beforehand showed me making hip hop music was more than just putting together a whole bunch of similes.

CE: Who would you most like to collaborate with?

DK: J. Cole. A Cole collaboration would mean a lot to me especially since he doesn’t give verses to just anyone, so being able to go bar for bar with him on a track would be the ultimate honor! I think our styles would mesh well together to, so it would definitely be a hit if we worked together. It’s a sign of respect whenever someone like Cole wants to work with you, so hopefully I get the privilege of doing so.

CE: What was it like hearing a song of your’s on the radio for the first time?

DK: Man it’s really one of those moments that’s just a dream come true. The first time I ever heard myself on the radio was in 2017 or 18 when 106.7 in Columbus played my song “Routine”. I was actually working at Bob Evans when this happened so I was tuning in from work with all my co-workers. I couldn’t believe my song had made it on there! When I first started making music I would always think about being on the radio, touring, hearing myself on TV and whatnot. It was a surreal moment that took me back to the times when I dreamed about doing that, and also reassurance that I’m on the right path.

CE: Any projects we should be on the lookout for this year?

DK: Absolutely! Me and my homie TYS Markie are working on a collaboration project right now. We don’t have a title for it yet but we have a few songs in the chamber so far that I’m excited for y’all to hear! I’ve always wanted to do a collaboration project, and I feel like this is definitely something a lot of people wouldn’t expect so I can’t wait to hear what we have on the way. Also, there’s a possibility that I’ll release a solo project this year whether it’s an EP or an album. I’m going to play it by ear and decide what I feel is best. Either way, I have a lot going on that my supporters should be excited about. (04/03/2023)