Introduction
Few names in pop music history spark as much nostalgia as Jordan Knight, the iconic lead singer of the legendary boy band New Kids on the Block (NKOTB). Rising to fame in the late 1980s and early 1990s, Knight has remained a household name for fans who grew up with his falsetto-driven hits and charming stage presence. Beyond his music career, Jordan Knight’s life story encompasses family, business ventures, solo music projects, and the challenges of balancing stardom with personal commitments.
This article explores who Jordan Knight is, his age, family and relations, net worth, his marriage to Evelyn Melendez, and details about his children, offering readers an in-depth look at both the man and the star.
Who Is Jordan Knight?
Jordan Nathaniel Marcel Knight, born on May 17, 1970, in Worcester, Massachusetts, is an American singer, songwriter, and actor. He gained international fame as the lead vocalist of the boy band New Kids on the Block, a group that played a crucial role in shaping modern pop music and paving the way for future boy bands like Backstreet Boys and NSYNC.
The son of Canadian parents, Allan Knight and Marlene Putnam, Jordan was the youngest of six children. His parents immigrated to the United States from Ontario, Canada, giving Knight dual exposure to Canadian and American culture while growing up. His older brother Jonathan Knight was also part of NKOTB, making the group something of a family affair.
From the very beginning, Jordan displayed a strong inclination toward music. His distinctive falsetto voice became the group’s signature sound, and even as a teenager, he was writing songs and experimenting with melodies.
Early Career and Rise with New Kids on the Block
In 1984, when Jordan was just 14 years old, he joined a newly formed pop group that would later become New Kids on the Block. Alongside Donnie Wahlberg, Danny Wood, Joey McIntyre, and his brother Jonathan Knight, the band signed with Columbia Records and released their debut album in 1986.
While their first album received modest attention, the breakthrough came in 1988 with Hangin’ Tough, which catapulted the group to global stardom. Songs like “I’ll Be Loving You (Forever),” “You Got It (The Right Stuff),” and “Step by Step” became cultural phenomena. Jordan’s voice was at the heart of many of these hits, and his youthful charisma made him a teen idol almost overnight.
NKOTB went on to sell over 80 million records worldwide, becoming one of the best-selling boy bands in history. Their tours filled arenas, their merchandise lined store shelves, and their influence reshaped pop culture.
Solo Career and Other Ventures
After the group initially disbanded in 1994, Jordan Knight pursued a solo career. His self-titled debut solo album released in 1999 featured the hit single “Give It to You,” which earned him a Teen Choice Award nomination and an MTV Video Music Award nomination.
The album was certified Gold in the United States, and it showed that Knight could thrive outside the shadow of NKOTB. Over the years, he released additional albums, including:
- Jordan Knight (1999)
- Love Songs (2006)
- Unfinished (2011)
He also collaborated with Nick Carter of the Backstreet Boys on the project Nick & Knight in 2014, highlighting his continuing relevance in the pop music scene.
Outside of music, Jordan has explored various ventures, including reality TV appearances and business endeavors, while maintaining a strong connection with his fan base through NKOTB reunion tours.
Jordan Knight’s Age
As of 2025, Jordan Knight is 55 years old. Despite the passing decades, he remains active in the entertainment industry and continues to perform with New Kids on the Block. His ability to maintain a strong fan following across generations is a testament to his lasting appeal.
Family and Relations
Jordan Knight comes from a large family of six children. His parents, Allan Knight and Marlene Putnam, raised their family in Worcester, Massachusetts, after immigrating from Ontario, Canada.
Among his siblings is his older brother Jonathan Knight, who also became famous as a member of New Kids on the Block. The Knight family has always maintained a relatively private life despite the fame that surrounded the brothers in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Jordan’s upbringing emphasized strong family ties, something he has carried into his own personal life with his wife and children.
Jordan Knight and Evelyn Melendez: Marriage
One of the most frequently asked questions is: Who is Jordan Knight married to now?
Jordan Knight has been married to Evelyn Melendez since 2004. Their relationship, however, began long before their wedding. The couple had been together since the mid-1990s and welcomed their first child in 1999, years before tying the knot.
Their marriage has endured the challenges of celebrity life, including constant public attention and occasional rumors of separation, but the couple has remained committed to one another. Evelyn has largely stayed out of the spotlight, choosing to maintain a private life despite being married to a global pop star.
Jordan Knight’s Children
Jordan and Evelyn have two children together:
- Dante Jordan Knight – Born August 25, 1999. Dante arrived before his parents officially married, and Jordan has often spoken about the importance of fatherhood in shaping his life.
- Eric Jacob Knight – Born February 21, 2007. Eric brought even more balance to Jordan’s life, and Knight has consistently emphasized that his children are his top priority outside of music.
Fatherhood has been a defining role for Jordan, and he has mentioned in interviews how being a dad gave him perspective on fame, responsibility, and personal growth.
Jordan Knight’s Net Worth
Over the years, Jordan Knight has built significant wealth from multiple sources:
- Record sales with New Kids on the Block
- Profits from world tours and merchandise
- His solo career and album sales
- Collaborations with other artists
- Business ventures and reality television appearances
As of 2025, Jordan Knight’s estimated net worth is around $18 million. While not at the level of some global megastars, this figure reflects decades of steady work in the entertainment industry and smart financial management.
Legacy and Influence
Jordan Knight’s influence on pop music cannot be overstated. With NKOTB, he helped establish the boy band model that would dominate the 1990s and early 2000s. His falsetto voice became instantly recognizable, and his ability to connect with audiences made him a favorite among fans.
Even after more than 30 years in the industry, Jordan Knight continues to perform, tour, and inspire both fans and fellow musicians. The continued success of NKOTB reunion tours demonstrates just how enduring his star power remains.
Personal Life and Privacy
Despite being a global celebrity, Jordan Knight has managed to maintain a relatively private personal life. He avoids excessive media exposure, preferring to let his music speak for itself. His marriage to Evelyn Melendez and devotion to his children are central pillars of his life, grounding him amid the chaos of fame.
Conclusion
From his teenage years as the heartthrob of New Kids on the Block to his current life as a husband, father, and accomplished solo artist, Jordan Knight’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and enduring appeal. Fans still flock to see him perform, and his legacy continues to grow as NKOTB introduces their music to new generations.
Whether it’s his marriage to Evelyn Melendez, his role as a father to Dante and Eric, or his success in building a net worth of $18 million, Jordan Knight remains a fascinating figure in the world of music and pop culture.
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