Gladys Knight, known as the “Empress of Soul,” is a celebrated American singer, songwriter, and actress. Born on May 28, 1944, in Atlanta, Georgia, she gained fame as the lead vocalist of Gladys Knight & the Pips. The group achieved numerous hits in the 1960s and 1970s, including classics like “Midnight Train to Georgia” and “Neither One of Us.” Knight’s powerful, emotive voice and dynamic stage presence have earned her multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her enduring influence spans across R&B, soul, and gospel music, making her a legendary figure in the music industry.
1. Midnight Train to Georgia
“Midnight Train to Georgia” is a classic soul song performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips. Released in 1973, it became one of their most iconic hits. Written by Jim Weatherly, the song tells the poignant story of a man who gives up his dreams of stardom in Los Angeles to return to Georgia, and his devoted partner who decides to follow him. With its heartfelt lyrics, soulful melodies, and Knight’s powerful, emotive vocals, the song resonates with themes of love, sacrifice, and longing. “Midnight Train to Georgia” won a Grammy Award and remains a timeless anthem in the soul music genre.
2. I Heard It Through the Grapevine
“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is a classic Motown song, first recorded by Smokey Robinson & the Miracles in 1966 but famously popularized by Marvin Gaye in 1968. The song, written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, is a soulful expression of betrayal and heartbreak, as the narrator learns of their partner’s infidelity through rumors. Gaye’s rendition, with its haunting vocals and dramatic production, became a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and remaining a definitive Motown classic. Gladys Knight & the Pips also released a successful version in 1967, which showcased Knight’s powerful voice and further cemented the song’s enduring appeal.
3. Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye)
“Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye)” is a soulful ballad by Gladys Knight & the Pips, released in 1972. Written by Jim Weatherly, the song captures the emotional turmoil of a failing relationship where both partners are reluctant to end things, despite knowing it’s over. Knight’s heartfelt delivery and the group’s harmonious backing vocals convey a deep sense of sadness and resignation. The song became one of their biggest hits, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus. It remains a timeless classic, showcasing Knight’s powerful voice and emotional depth.
4. Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me
“Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me,” performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips, is a soulful ballad released in 1974. Written by Jim Weatherly, the song became one of the group’s most beloved hits. It features heartfelt lyrics about gratitude and love, celebrating a transformative relationship. Gladys Knight’s powerful and emotive vocals, combined with the smooth harmonies of the Pips, create a timeless classic that resonates with listeners. The song’s success contributed to the group’s enduring legacy in the soul and R&B genres, and it remains a staple in their repertoire of memorable hits.
5. You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me
“You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me,” performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips, is a soulful ballad released in 1974. Written by Jim Weatherly, the song became one of the group’s most beloved hits. It features heartfelt lyrics about gratitude and love, celebrating a transformative relationship. Gladys Knight’s powerful and emotive vocals, combined with the smooth harmonies of the Pips, create a timeless classic that resonates with listeners. The song’s success contributed to the group’s enduring legacy in the soul and R&B genres, and it remains a staple in their repertoire of memorable hits.
6. That’s What Friends Are For
“That’s What Friends Are For” is a hit song originally recorded by Rod Stewart in 1982 but famously covered by Dionne Warwick in 1985. Warwick’s version, featuring Gladys Knight, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder, became an anthem of friendship and support. Written by Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager, the song’s heartfelt lyrics and uplifting melody emphasize the enduring strength of true friendship. The collaboration was a major success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning two Grammy Awards, including Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Proceeds from the single benefited the American Foundation for AIDS Research (amfAR), adding a significant charitable impact to its legacy.
7. I’ve Got to Use My Imagination
“I’ve Got to Use My Imagination” is a soulful track by Gladys Knight & the Pips, released in 1973. Written by Gerry Goffin and Barry Goldberg, the song showcases Gladys Knight’s powerful vocals and the Pips’ impeccable harmonies. The lyrics express resilience and determination in the face of hardship, emphasizing the need to stay positive and creative during tough times. The song’s upbeat tempo, combined with its soulful delivery, made it a hit on both the R&B and pop charts. It remains a classic example of the group’s ability to convey deep emotion through their music.
8. If I Were Your Woman
“If I Were Your Woman” is a soulful ballad by Gladys Knight & the Pips, released in 1970. Written by Pam Sawyer, Clay McMurray, and Gloria Jones, the song tells the story of a woman who envisions a better life for her man if she were his partner, contrasting his current troubled relationship. Knight’s powerful, emotive vocals convey longing and conviction, making the song a standout in their repertoire. The track became a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard R&B chart and number nine on the Billboard Hot 100. “If I Were Your Woman” remains one of Gladys Knight’s most memorable performances, highlighting her exceptional vocal talent and emotional depth.
9. On and On
“On and On” is a soulful ballad by Gladys Knight & the Pips, released in 1974 as part of the soundtrack for the film “Claudine.” Written and produced by Curtis Mayfield, the song captures the trials and tribulations of love and life, reflecting the film’s themes. Gladys Knight’s powerful and emotive vocals, paired with the Pips’ smooth harmonies, bring a deep sense of sincerity and passion to the song. The track’s poignant lyrics and soulful melody made it a standout hit, contributing to the group’s enduring popularity and the success of the “Claudine” soundtrack.
10. Help Me Make It Through the Night
“Help Me Make It Through the Night” is a classic country ballad written by Kris Kristofferson and released in 1970. The song gained widespread acclaim and popularity through its evocative lyrics and emotional delivery, telling the story of a person seeking comfort and companionship for just one night to alleviate their loneliness. The most famous version of the song was recorded by Sammi Smith in 1970, which won a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance and became a number-one hit on the country charts.
Gladys Knight & the Pips also covered the song, delivering a soulful rendition that showcased Knight’s powerful and emotive voice. Their version appeared on their 1972 album “Neither One of Us,” adding a rich, soulful layer to the song’s heartfelt plea for solace. Knight’s interpretation brought a new dimension to the song, blending elements of R&B and soul with the original country essence, further solidifying the song’s status as a timeless classic.