Gladys Knight, born Gladys Maria Knight on May 28, 1944, is an American singer, songwriter, actress, and author. She is often referred to as the “Empress of Soul” for her powerful and soulful voice, as well as her contributions to the music industry over several decades.
Gladys Knight began her musical career at a young age, forming a gospel group called the Pips with her siblings in the 1950s. The group later evolved into Gladys Knight & the Pips, with Gladys serving as the lead vocalist.
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Gladys Knight & the Pips achieved commercial success with hits like “Every Beat of My Heart,” “I Heard It Through the Grapevine,” “If I Were Your Woman,” and “Midnight Train to Georgia.” The group’s smooth harmonies and Knight’s powerful vocals earned them recognition and acclaim in the R&B and soul music scenes.
In addition to her work with the Pips, Gladys Knight also pursued a successful solo career, releasing albums and singles that showcased her versatility as a singer. Some of her solo hits include “Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye)” and “Love Overboard.”
Over the course of her career, Gladys Knight has received numerous awards and accolades, including multiple Grammy Awards and inductions into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame. She is known for her dynamic stage presence, vocal range, and ability to connect with audiences through her music.
In addition to her music career, Gladys Knight has also ventured into acting and authored several books. She remains an influential figure in the music industry and continues to perform and inspire audiences around the world with her timeless music and soulful voice.
1. Midnight Train to Georgia
“Midnight Train to Georgia” is a classic soul song performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips. It was written by Jim Weatherly and first released by Cissy Houston in 1973. However, it was Gladys Knight & the Pips’ rendition that became the most famous and successful.
Released in 1973 as a single from their album “Imagination,” “Midnight Train to Georgia” became one of Gladys Knight & the Pips’ signature songs and one of the defining tracks of the soul genre. The song tells the story of a woman who gives up her dreams of stardom in Los Angeles to return to her hometown of Georgia, accompanied by her partner.
With its infectious melody, tight harmonies, and Gladys Knight’s powerful vocals, “Midnight Train to Georgia” became an instant hit. It reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and earned the group a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group.
“Midnight Train to Georgia” has since become a timeless classic and a staple of soul and R&B music. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials over the years. The song’s evocative lyrics and memorable melody continue to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved favorite across generations.
2. I Heard It Through the Grapevine
“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” is a classic soul song that was originally recorded by Motown artist Marvin Gaye in 1967. The song was written by Norman Whitfield and Barrett Strong and was produced by Whitfield.
Marvin Gaye’s version of “I Heard It Through the Grapevine” became one of Motown’s biggest hits and is considered one of the greatest soul songs of all time. The song features a driving beat, a memorable bassline, and Gaye’s emotive vocals. Lyrically, the song tells the story of a man who learns through gossip that his romantic partner has been unfaithful.
“I Heard It Through the Grapevine” topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a massive success worldwide. It has since been covered by numerous artists from various genres, including Creedence Clearwater Revival, Gladys Knight & the Pips, and Creed. Each artist has brought their own interpretation to the song, but Marvin Gaye’s version remains the definitive rendition and a timeless classic in the history of popular 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 soul song originally performed by Gladys Knight & the Pips. It was released in 1973 as the title track of their album “Neither One of Us.”
The song was written by Jim Weatherly and became one of Gladys Knight & the Pips’ biggest hits. It features Knight’s powerful vocals along with the group’s trademark harmonies. Lyrically, the song explores the pain and reluctance of ending a relationship, as neither partner wants to be the first to initiate the breakup.
“Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye)” was a commercial success, reaching the top ten on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and topping the Billboard R&B chart. It also earned the group a Grammy Award for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group or Chorus.
The song has since become a soul classic and has been covered by various artists over the years. It remains a favorite among fans of soul music for its emotive vocals, poignant lyrics, and timeless appeal.
4. Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me
“Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” is a soul song originally recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips. It was released in 1974 as a single from their album “Imagination.”
The song was written by Jim Weatherly and has since become one of Gladys Knight & the Pips’ most enduring hits. It features Knight’s emotive vocals supported by the group’s smooth harmonies. Lyrically, the song expresses gratitude and appreciation for a loved one, describing them as the best thing that ever happened in the singer’s life.
“Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It remains a beloved classic in the soul genre and has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Ray Price, Beyoncé, and Gladys Knight herself in a solo rendition. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful melody have resonated with audiences for decades, making it a timeless favorite.
5. You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me
“You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” is a soul ballad originally written by Jim Weatherly. The song was first recorded and released by Ray Price in 1973, achieving modest success on the country charts.
However, it was Gladys Knight & the Pips’ rendition of the song that became the most famous and successful. Released in 1974 as a single from their album “Imagination,” Gladys Knight & the Pips’ version of “You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” reached the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became one of their signature songs.
With Gladys Knight’s emotive vocals and the group’s harmonies, the song captured the hearts of listeners and became an enduring classic in the soul and R&B genres. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials.
“You’re the Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me” is a heartfelt declaration of love and gratitude, with the protagonist expressing appreciation for their partner and acknowledging them as the best thing in their life. The song’s timeless message of love and devotion continues to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved favorite across generations.
6. That’s What Friends Are For
“That’s What Friends Are For” is a song written by Burt Bacharach and Carole Bayer Sager. It was first recorded in 1982 by Rod Stewart for the soundtrack of the film “Night Shift,” but it was later famously covered by Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Gladys Knight in 1985.
The version by Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, and Gladys Knight was released as a charity single to raise funds for AIDS research and support. It became a massive hit, topping the charts in the United States and several other countries. The song also won the Grammy Award for Song of the Year and Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal in 1987.
“That’s What Friends Are For” is a heartfelt ballad that celebrates the enduring strength and support of friendship. The lyrics express gratitude for friends who offer love, encouragement, and companionship during both good times and bad. With its uplifting melody and powerful vocal performances, the song became an anthem of friendship and solidarity.
The success of “That’s What Friends Are For” not only raised significant funds for AIDS research but also helped raise awareness and reduce stigma surrounding the disease. The song remains a beloved classic and a reminder of the importance of friendship and compassion in times of need.
7. I’ve Got to Use My Imagination
“I’ve Got to Use My Imagination” is a soul song originally recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips. It was released in 1973 as a single from their album “Imagination.”
The song was written by Gerry Goffin and Barry Goldberg. It features a funky and upbeat melody, with Knight’s powerful vocals leading the way. Lyrically, the song explores the theme of perseverance and resilience in the face of challenges. The protagonist acknowledges the difficulties they face but remains determined to use their imagination to find hope and inspiration.
“I’ve Got to Use My Imagination” was a commercial success for Gladys Knight & the Pips, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It has since become one of the group’s signature songs and a beloved classic in the soul genre.
The song’s infectious groove and uplifting message have resonated with audiences for decades, and it has been covered by various artists over the years. “I’ve Got to Use My Imagination” remains a timeless anthem of perseverance and creative resilience.
8. If I Were Your Woman
“If I Were Your Woman” is a soul song originally recorded by Gladys Knight & the Pips in 1970. It was written by Gloria Jones, Clay McMurray, and Pam Sawyer. The song was released as a single from their album of the same name.
“If I Were Your Woman” became one of Gladys Knight & the Pips’ signature songs and a classic in the soul genre. The song features Gladys Knight’s emotive vocals, backed by the group’s tight harmonies, over a lush orchestral arrangement.
The lyrics of “If I Were Your Woman” express a woman’s longing to be closer to her partner and to have the chance to love and care for them deeply. The protagonist sings about the sacrifices she would make and the love she would give if she were in a relationship with the person she desires.
The song was a commercial success, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and peaking at number nine on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also earned Gladys Knight & the Pips a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group.
“If I Were Your Woman” has since become a timeless classic and has been covered by various artists over the years. Its soulful melody, poignant lyrics, and powerful vocal performance by Gladys Knight continue to resonate with audiences, making it a beloved favorite in the world of soul music.
9. On and On
“On and On” is a soul song originally recorded by American soul singer Gladys Knight. It was released in 1974 as the title track of her album “Gladys Knight & the Pips On and On.”
The song was written by Curtis Mayfield, a prolific songwriter and musician known for his work in soul and R&B. “On and On” features Knight’s soulful vocals accompanied by the harmonies of her group, The Pips. Lyrically, the song expresses a longing for enduring love and stability, with the narrator expressing a desire for a relationship that will last “on and on.”
While “On and On” did not achieve the same level of commercial success as some of Gladys Knight & the Pips’ other hits, it remains a fan favorite and a testament to Knight’s vocal talent and Mayfield’s songwriting prowess. The song’s smooth groove and heartfelt lyrics have earned it a place as a beloved classic in the soul music canon.
10. Help Me Make It Through the Night
“Help Me Make It Through the Night” is a country song written by Kris Kristofferson, which was originally released in 1970. The song has been covered by numerous artists from various genres, including soul, country, and pop.
Gladys Knight & the Pips recorded a version of “Help Me Make It Through the Night” for their 1971 album “If I Were Your Woman.” Their rendition of the song features Gladys Knight’s powerful vocals accompanied by the group’s harmonies. Their soulful interpretation of the song adds a new dimension to the original country composition.
The lyrics of “Help Me Make It Through the Night” depict a moment of vulnerability and longing, as the protagonist seeks comfort and companionship from their lover. The song’s evocative imagery and heartfelt sentiments have made it a classic in the country and pop music genres.
Gladys Knight & the Pips’ version of “Help Me Make It Through the Night” became a hit, reaching the top of the Billboard R&B chart and earning critical acclaim. Their soulful rendition of the song remains a standout track in their discography and a favorite among fans of soul and R&B music.