Brian McKnight to Perform Free Holiday Concert on the World Famous Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica on December 5th

SANTA MONICA, Calif., Dec. 3 /PRNewswire/ –This year, there’s no better place for families to get into the holiday spirit than in Downtown Santa Monica. As part of its annual Winter lit and Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration, Third Street Promenade will be making the season bright with a free, family-friendly concert co-sponsored by 94.7 The WAVE and a special performance by GRAMMY nominated artist Brian McKnight and his sons, Brian Jr. and Niko, onDecember 5, 2009.

Hosted by 94.7 The WAVE’s Morning Show radio personality Pat Prescott, the celebration will kick-off at 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, December 5th with an opening set performed by Jared Lee, an up-and-coming talent, who combines an astounding vocal range with soothing and inspirational lyrics. Then, featured artist Brian McKnight will take the stage with ‘McKnight,’ his sons Niko and Brian Jr., performing an acoustic set of their favorite holiday songs. The song list includes classic favorites from Brian’s holiday album, “I’ll Be Home For Christmas.”

Brian McKnight has earned himself a spot in contemporary music history -selling more than 20 Million albums worldwide, and earning multiple nominations and awards. Brian co-hosts “The Brian McKnight Morning Show” on radio’s KTWV / The WAVE – Smooth Jazz in LA, as well as “The Brian McKnight Show” syndicated on Citadel (formerly ABC Radio) coast to coast. Brian’s new weekly late night television talk show, “The Brian McKnight Show”, is syndicated nationwide as well. In addition,his latest album, “Evolution of A Man,” is in stores now. Brian will be signing copies of his albums immediately following the concert on Third Street Promenade.

Performing under the name “McKnight”; Brian Jr. (age 20) and Niko (17) are following in their father’s talented footsteps. Both talented musicians in their own right, they completed their album which will launch in early 2010 and includes their newly released single “L.O.V.E.” They also helped produce and engineer Brian’s most recent release, “I Love LA.”

While the crowd awaits the performances, there will be carolers and an appearance by Santa himself. During McKnight’s opening song, the 22 ft.Christmas tree and seasonal lights on Third Street Promenade will lightup, illuminating the street with sparkling cheer. Expect a chance of snow during the last song. Border Grill restaurant in Santa Monica will be serving hot chocolate and popcorn to the first 1,000 guests.

The World-Famous Third Street Promenade is a beautiful outdoor center that features shopping, dining and even skating, at Downtown Santa Monica’s premiere outdoor skating rink, ICE at Santa Monica. We look forward to celebrating the holidays on Saturday, December 5th.

For more information about Downtown Santa Monica and the free Winterlit concert, please visit www.downtownsm.com.

**Photos and video footage will be available to media outlets on Monday,December 7th. To request images and footage or to cover the event,please contact: