Mr. Knightowl, born Ramon Corona on May 13, 1966, in Mexico, was a pioneering figure in Chicano rap who became a prominent voice in West Coast gangsta rap. Launching his career in 1993, he gained early fame with hit singles like "Daddy I'm In Love With a Gangsta" and "Here Comes The Knightowl." Initially signed to Columbia Records, he later established his own label, Sawed Off Records, granting him creative freedom and enabling him to mentor emerging talents such as Mr. Shadow. Known for rapping in Spanglish and Caló, Mr. Knightowl built a loyal fan base with his distinctive style and collaborations with influential artists like Eazy-E, Kid Frost, and Lil Rob. His albums, including The Knightowl (1995), Wicked West (1998), and Shot Caller (1999), cemented his status as a key figure in the genre. In 2000, he teamed up with Mr. Lil' One to release The Little & The Owl, further showcasing his versatility. Over his career, he released numerous albums, including El Gran Pelon (2004), No Regrets (2007), and The Untouchable Owl Pacino (2019). Knightowl passed away on February 11, 2022, due to COVID-19 complications, leaving behind a legacy as a trailblazer in Chicano rap.
