Gladys Knight is an iconic American singer, songwriter, and actress, born on May 28, 1944, in Atlanta, Georgia. She rose to prominence as the lead vocalist of Gladys Knight & the Pips, a soul and R&B group formed with her siblings and cousins. With her powerful and soulful voice, Knight became known as the “Empress of Soul.”
Gladys Knight & the Pips achieved considerable success in the 1960s and 1970s with hits like “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye),” and “Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me.” Their smooth harmonies and Knight’s emotive delivery earned them multiple Grammy Awards and widespread acclaim.
Beyond her work with the Pips, Gladys Knight embarked on a successful solo career, releasing albums and singles that further showcased her vocal prowess and versatility. She also ventured into acting, appearing in films and television shows, and remained a respected figure in the entertainment industry.
Throughout her career, Gladys Knight has been recognized for her contributions to music, earning induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and receiving numerous accolades for her achievements. With her timeless songs and enduring legacy, she continues to inspire audiences around the world.
1. Midnight Train to Georgia
“Midnight Train to Georgia” is a classic soul and R&B song performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips. Written by Jim Weatherly, the song was first recorded by Weatherly himself under the title “Midnight Plane to Houston.” However, it achieved greater success when Gladys Knight & the Pips released their version in 1973.
The song tells the story of a woman who leaves Los Angeles to return to Georgia, accompanied by her partner who follows her on the midnight train. Despite the challenges and uncertainties they face, including the woman’s dreams of stardom in Los Angeles, they find solace and comfort in returning to their roots.
“Midnight Train to Georgia” became one of Gladys Knight & the Pips’ most popular and enduring hits, topping the charts in the United States and earning them a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group. The song’s smooth melody, heartfelt lyrics, and Knight’s powerful vocals have made it a timeless favorite among audiences for decades. Its iconic refrain, “Oh, he’s leavin’ on that midnight train to Georgia,” has become ingrained in popular culture, solidifying its status as a classic in the soul and R&B genre.
2. I Heard It Through the Grapevine
“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is a soul classic originally recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips in 1967. The song, written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong, became one of the group’s signature hits. With Gladys Knight’s soulful vocals leading the way, the song tells the story of heartbreak and betrayal upon hearing rumors of infidelity through the grapevine. The Pips’ harmonies add depth and emotion to the track, while the driving rhythm and infectious groove create an irresistible energy. “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” topped the charts and became one of Motown’s most iconic songs, later covered by various artists, including Marvin Gaye, cementing its status as a timeless classic in the history of soul music.
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 recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips in 1972. Written by Jim Weatherly, the song depicts the heart-wrenching dilemma of two individuals realizing their relationship is coming to an end but neither wanting to initiate the farewell. Gladys Knight’s powerful and emotive vocals, combined with the smooth harmonies of the Pips, convey the emotional turmoil and vulnerability of the situation. The song’s lush orchestration and poignant lyrics create a poignant atmosphere, resonating with listeners who have experienced the complexities of love and loss. “Neither One of Us” became one of Gladys Knight & the Pips’ most successful hits, earning critical acclaim and commercial success, solidifying its place as a classic in the soul music genre.
4. Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me
“Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” is a soulful ballad originally recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips in 1973. Written by Jim Weatherly, the song expresses gratitude and appreciation for a loving and supportive partner. Gladys Knight’s soul-stirring vocals, along with the smooth harmonies of the Pips, convey the depth of emotion and sincerity in the lyrics. The song’s heartfelt sentiment and uplifting melody struck a chord with audiences, making it one of Gladys Knight & the Pips’ most beloved and enduring hits. “Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” has since been covered by various artists, solidifying its status as a timeless classic in the realm of soul music.
5. You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me
“You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” is a soulful ballad originally recorded by Ray Price in 1973. However, it is most famously associated with Gladys Knight & the Pips, who covered the song the same year and achieved significant success with their rendition.
Written by Jim Weatherly, the song expresses profound gratitude and love for a partner who is seen as the greatest blessing in one’s life. The lyrics convey a sense of deep appreciation and admiration, celebrating the love and joy that the partner brings.
Gladys Knight & the Pips’ version of “You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” became a major hit, topping the Billboard R&B chart and reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100. The group’s smooth harmonies, coupled with Gladys Knight’s emotive vocals, brought a soulful and heartfelt quality to the song, resonating with audiences and earning critical acclaim.
Over the years, “You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” has remained a beloved classic in the soul and R&B genre, enduring as a timeless declaration of love and appreciation.
6. That’s What Friends Are For
“That’s What Friends Are For” is a heartfelt ballad originally recorded by Rod Stewart for the soundtrack of the 1982 film “Night Shift.” However, it gained widespread popularity when it was re-recorded by Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Gladys Knight for the 1985 album “Dionne & Friends.” Written by Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager, the song celebrates the enduring support and companionship of true friends through life’s ups and downs. With its uplifting melody and powerful vocal performances from each of the artists, “That’s What Friends Are For” became a chart-topping hit and a beloved anthem for friendship. The song’s message of loyalty and camaraderie resonated deeply with audiences, earning it multiple Grammy Awards and solidifying its place as a timeless classic.
7. I’ve Got to Use My Imagination
“I’ve Got to Use My Imagination” is a soulful and funky song performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips, released in 1973. Co-written by Gerry Goffin and Barry Goldberg, the song explores themes of perseverance, resilience, and the power of imagination in overcoming adversity.
In “I’ve Got to Use My Imagination,” Gladys Knight & the Pips sing about facing challenges and setbacks in life but finding solace and hope through the power of imagination. The lyrics emphasize the importance of dreaming and visualizing a better future, even in the face of hardship.
The song’s catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and soulful vocals make it an uplifting anthem that resonated with audiences. It became a major hit for Gladys Knight & the Pips, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earning critical acclaim.
“I’ve Got to Use My Imagination” remains a beloved classic in Gladys Knight & the Pips’ repertoire, celebrated for its positive message and infectious energy. Its timeless appeal continues to inspire listeners to tap into their creativity and imagination as a source of strength and inspiration.
8. If I Were Your Woman
“If I Were Your Woman” is a soulful ballad originally recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips in 1970. Written by Gloria Jones, Pam Sawyer, and Clay McMurray, the song explores themes of longing and devotion, with the singer expressing a desire to fulfill her partner’s needs and be there for them unconditionally. Gladys Knight’s emotive vocals, combined with the rich harmonies of the Pips, convey the depth of emotion and sincerity in the lyrics. “If I Were Your Woman” became one of the group’s signature hits, earning critical acclaim and commercial success. Its enduring popularity has led to numerous cover versions by other artists, solidifying its status as a classic in the soul music genre.
9. On and On
“On and On” is a smooth and soulful R&B song performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips, released in 1974. Written by Curtis Mayfield, the song is known for its laid-back groove and heartfelt vocals.
In “On and On,” Gladys Knight & the Pips sing about the ups and downs of life and love, emphasizing the cyclical nature of experiences that continue “on and on.” The lyrics reflect on the passage of time, the inevitability of change, and the resilience needed to navigate life’s challenges.
With its infectious rhythm, lush orchestration, and Gladys Knight’s emotive delivery, “On and On” became a fan favorite and a chart success. It showcased the group’s vocal harmonies and musical versatility, earning acclaim from both critics and audiences.
Despite being one of the lesser-known hits in Gladys Knight & the Pips’ catalog, “On and On” remains a cherished gem among fans of classic soul and R&B music, appreciated for its timeless sound and universal themes of endurance and perseverance.
10. Help Me Make It Through the Night
“Help Me Make It Through the Night” is a classic country ballad written by Kris Kristofferson, first recorded and released by Sammi Smith in 1970. The song depicts a plea for companionship and solace during a lonely and difficult time. With its evocative lyrics and heartfelt melody, it captures the longing for connection and comfort in the arms of a loved one. Sammi Smith’s soulful rendition of the song earned her a Grammy Award for Best Country Vocal Performance, Female, in 1972, propelling it to commercial success. “Help Me Make It Through the Night” has since been covered by numerous artists across various genres, solidifying its status as a timeless classic in the realm of country music.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
