Biography

From Jamaica

Stepping Royal

Knotty Royal Born on August 31, 1980 in Kingston, Jamaica, given name Leighton Anthony Thomas. Son to Glenroy Anthony Thomas and Jennifer Williams.  I grow up in Spring Hill Portland with my Grandmother, my fathers mother. Went to School’s at Burnawood Primary, Avocot Junior High, Buff Bay High. After move Maxfield AVE to lived with Dad and attend Rock Fort VTC for Welding. I frequented in Stroke Hall St. Thomas my mothers home ground. Mom and Dad met in Kingston and created a Love Union that gave birth to me. The first and only Son the Dad and second Son to Mom. I have three Sister’s by Dad and two Brother’s and two Sister’s by Mom. Knotty Royal is a humble and peace making person.   A defender of truth and rights. As a person growing up he always had love for music. But wasn't sure if that was something he could see himself doing.

Migrated to Canada in 2002, began seeking Rastafari, shortly after Became a Family man. His love for music started to increase in his life,  He Believes one of the key way to communicate is through music. Perpetually learning music and writing songs. 



 

Videos

Holy Mountain

Music Video

2023

Click

New Single

2026

The inspiration for the song dates back to a visit to Jamaica in 2010 when a relative shared stories about Christopher Columbus’ arrival on the island. The story remained with him for years and resurfaced when he heard the Hill and Gully Riddim.

“That story stuck to me like cedar stain. When I heard the riddim, the story and the music came together in my mind,” he said.

Through Doctor Bird, Knotty Royal highlights Jamaica’s influence on the world while celebrating the island’s breathtaking landscapes and cultural legacy.

“I want listeners to understand that Jamaica is a positive force in the world. People look to us for positive vibes, and our landscape and culture are beautiful and incomparable,” he explained.

The artiste said the Hill and Gully Riddim immediately connected with him because of its authentic Jamaican feel and its reflection of the country’s “Out of Many, One People” identity.

Knotty Royal has also expressed hopes that acclaimed producer Stephen McGregor, better known as Di Genius, will officially endorse the song.

“Music is both entertainment and business. When those two things come together, great things can happen,” he said.

Since its release, Doctor Bird has received encouraging feedback from fans, with some suggesting it should be entered in the 2026 Jamaica Festival Song Competition.

Living in Canada has not diminished his connection to Jamaica. The artiste says he regularly listens to Jamaican radio stations and stays closely connected to developments in the local music scene.

His musical journey has been fueled by a lifelong love of reading, prayer, and music. While building a reggae career in the diaspora has its challenges, he believes Jamaica remains the ultimate proving ground for reggae and dancehall artistes.

“If you buss in Jamaica, you buss in the world,” he said.

Knotty Royal also believes the popularity of the Hill and Gully movement reflects a growing appreciation for authentic Jamaican culture and positive music.

Beyond Doctor Bird, he is working on several new singles, including Rip & Run Off, Learn Time, Motivation, and Run. He is also continuing to promote his 2024 debut album, Holy Mountain.

Looking ahead, the artiste hopes to secure greater radio exposure and expand his audience internationally while continuing to create music that reflects his faith, culture, and Jamaican identity.

Doctor Bird is available on major streaming platforms, including YouTube and Spotify.

Youtube Link

Contact

royalknotty@gmail.com