Singer Gladys Knight, appropriately dubbed the “Empress of Soul,” has made incomparable contributions to music through her powerful voice, which still brings the house down.
Knight kicked off her career with the formation of Gladys Knight & the Pips in 1952. The group, including her brother Merald “Bubba” Knight and cousins Edward Patten and William Guest, quickly gained recognition with their soulful harmonies, led by Knight’s vocals. Their breakthrough came in 1966 when they signed with Motown Records. There, they produced hits like “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” and “Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye).” The group’s success continued into the 1970s with the transition to Buddah Records, releasing the Grammy-winning “Midnight Train to Georgia,” a song that became one of their most notable records.
Knight decided to try her hand at a solo career in 1987, which further cemented her status as a music icon. She achieved massive success with albums such as “Good Woman” in 1991 and “Just for You” in 1994. As an individual act, Knight won seven Grammys, venturing into gospel and even pop. Beyond her recording achievements, she is also known for her philanthropic efforts, including her work with the American Diabetes Association.
As we celebrate the 80th birthday of Gladys Knight, let’s remember some of our favorite moments from this superstar, who has selflessly given so much to R&B and soul.
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