Gladys Knight is an American singer, songwriter, actress, businesswoman, and author. Widely known as the "Empress of Soul," she has left an enduring legacy in the music industry through both her solo work and her performances with the group Gladys Knight & the Pips.
Gladys Knight was born on May 28, 1944, in Atlanta, Georgia. Her musical journey began at an early age, debuting as a performer at just four years old when she sang at the Mount Mariah Baptist Church in Atlanta. Her talent was soon recognized when she won first prize on the television talent show, Ted Mack’s Amateur Hour, showcasing her remarkable vocal ability even as a child.
By the age of eight, Knight began singing with her siblings and cousins, forming a group initially named "The Pips," inspired by a family member’s nickname. During the 1950s, the group started gaining recognition by opening for established R&B artists such as Jackie Wilson and Sam Cooke. Their performances across the Southern United States, particularly on the "Chitlin’ Circuit"—a network of venues safe for African American entertainers during segregation—helped them develop a devoted fan base.
The group's popularity soared in the late 1960s and 1970s following their transition to Motown Records. Under the Motown label and later with Buddah Records, the group—renamed Gladys Knight & the Pips—achieved mainstream success. Their signature song, "Midnight Train to Georgia," released in 1973, became a number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 and remains a defining piece of Knight's career. Known for Gladys Knight’s powerful and soulful lead vocals, backed by the Pips' tight harmonies and choreography, the group earned multiple Grammy Awards and critical acclaim.
In 1989, Knight officially parted ways with the Pips to pursue a solo career. Contrary to claims that her solo career surpassed her group success, her achievements with the Pips remain the pinnacle of her commercial popularity. However, as a solo artist, she continued to release albums and perform extensively, showcasing her enduring appeal and vocal mastery. She also expanded into acting, appearing in television and film, which contributed to her legacy as a versatile entertainer.
Outside of music, Knight is recognized for her entrepreneurial efforts and work as an author. Her contributions to soul music and American culture have earned her numerous accolades, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and receiving the National Medal of Arts.
| Birth Date: | 28 May, 1944 |
| Age: | 75 yrs |
| Citizenship: | United States of America |
| Birth Place: | Atlanta |
| Gender: | Female |
| Description: | American singer |
| Net Worth 2021: | 28 million |
