Gladys Knight, affectionately known as the “Empress of Soul,” has captivated audiences for decades with her powerful voice, timeless hits, and undeniable stage presence. From her beginnings as the lead of the legendary group Gladys Knight & the Pips to her illustrious solo career, Knight has left an indelible mark on the music world. Her ability to blend soul, R&B, and gospel into unforgettable melodies has earned her legions of fans across generations.
Whether it’s her heart-wrenching ballads or her upbeat anthems, her music transcends time and continues to resonate with listeners. In this list, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Gladys Knight songs of all time—tracks that have defined her career, topped charts, and become staples in the world of soul music. From timeless classics like Midnight Train to Georgia to more soulful gems, these songs showcase Knight’s extraordinary vocal prowess, emotional depth, and her gift for storytelling. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or discovering her music for the first time, these hits are guaranteed to remind you why Gladys Knight remains one of the most revered voices in music history.
1. Midnight Train to Georgia (1973)
Arguably Gladys Knight’s most iconic song, Midnight Train to Georgia is a soulful ballad that tells the poignant story of love, sacrifice, and longing. Released in 1973, this timeless hit became a signature tune for Gladys Knight & the Pips. With its powerful lyrics and Knight’s emotive delivery, the song quickly soared to the top of the charts, winning a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal Performance by a Duo, Group, or Chorus. The song’s vivid storytelling, about a man giving up his dreams and returning to his roots with the woman who loves him, continues to resonate with listeners. Its infectious chorus and smooth harmonies make it a classic that stands the test of time.
2. Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye) (1973)
Released in the same year as Midnight Train to Georgia, Neither One of Us is a heartbreaking ballad about the painful end of a relationship where both parties are unwilling to admit it’s over. Gladys Knight’s heartfelt performance carries the emotional weight of the song, making it one of her most beloved tracks. The song’s slow build and soaring vocals earned the group a Grammy Award nomination and cemented its place in soul music history. The sincerity and raw emotion Knight brings to the track are unmatched, touching the hearts of audiences worldwide.
3. I Heard It Through the Grapevine (1967)
Before Marvin Gaye’s version became a Motown classic, Gladys Knight & the Pips released their version of I Heard It Through the Grapevine in 1967. Their rendition is faster and more upbeat, driven by Knight’s fiery delivery and the Pips’ tight harmonies. While the song tells a tale of betrayal and heartbreak, the energetic arrangement made it a massive hit, reaching number two on the Billboard Hot 100. Knight’s stirring vocals and the infectious rhythm made this version a standout, proving her ability to turn any song into a soulful masterpiece.
4. If I Were Your Woman (1970)
Released in 1970, If I Were Your Woman is a passionate declaration of love and longing. In this powerful ballad, Gladys Knight sings from the perspective of a woman who wishes she could take the place of another in her lover’s heart. The song’s soulful arrangement and Knight’s commanding voice make it one of her standout performances. The vulnerability in the lyrics, paired with the strength in Knight’s delivery, creates a compelling contrast that has made this track a favorite among fans. It became a number one R&B hit and remains a powerful anthem of unrequited love.
5. Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me (1974)
Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me is a jubilant anthem of gratitude and love, released in 1974. With its uplifting message, the song became a massive hit, peaking at number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Gladys Knight’s voice is filled with warmth and affection as she sings about appreciating the love that has transformed her life. The song’s catchy melody and positive message make it a timeless favorite for weddings, celebrations, and moments of reflection. It’s one of those songs that instantly brings a smile to your face and warmth to your heart.
6. I’ve Got to Use My Imagination (1973)
Released in 1973, I’ve Got to Use My Imagination is a funky, upbeat tune that showcases Gladys Knight’s versatility as an artist. The song’s groovy rhythm, combined with Knight’s soulful vocals, creates an infectious energy that gets listeners moving. The lyrics tell a story of survival and perseverance, as Knight sings about using her imagination to overcome the pain of a broken relationship. The song’s upbeat tempo and powerful message made it a top 10 hit, reaffirming Knight’s status as a force to be reckoned with in the music world.
7. The Way We Were / Try to Remember (1975)
In 1975, Gladys Knight & the Pips delivered a stunning medley of The Way We Were and Try to Remember. This beautiful fusion of two classic songs showcases Knight’s ability to convey deep emotion through her voice. The Way We Were reflects on past memories, while Try to Remember adds a nostalgic, reflective twist. The group’s harmonies are impeccable, and Knight’s lead vocals are filled with warmth and sentimentality. This medley became a huge hit, reaching the top of the R&B charts, and remains a fan-favorite for its emotional depth and exquisite delivery.
8. Save the Overtime (For Me) (1983)
Save the Overtime (For Me), released in 1983, marked a shift for Gladys Knight & the Pips as they embraced a more modern, funky sound. The song’s infectious groove, combined with Knight’s soulful lead vocals, made it a standout on the dance floors. It became the group’s first number one hit on the R&B charts in the 1980s. The track’s upbeat tempo and catchy hook make it a memorable entry in Knight’s impressive catalog, proving her ability to stay relevant and adapt to the changing musical landscape.
9. Love Overboard (1987)
In 1987, Gladys Knight & the Pips released Love Overboard, a funky, upbeat track that brought them back to the top of the charts. The song’s infectious rhythm and playful lyrics made it an instant hit, earning the group a Grammy Award for Best R&B Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. Love Overboard is a celebration of love that’s taken over, and Knight’s exuberant delivery brings the song to life. Its success marked a high point for the group in the late 1980s, proving that their music could still captivate audiences decades into their career.
10. Take Me In Your Arms and Love Me (1967)
Released in 1967, Take Me In Your Arms and Love Me is a sultry, passionate ballad that showcases Gladys Knight’s powerful, emotive voice. The song tells the story of a woman yearning for love and affection, and Knight’s passionate delivery makes every word feel deeply personal. The lush orchestration and heartfelt lyrics made it a hit in the UK, where it became one of her most beloved tracks. This song highlights Knight’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength in equal measure, solidifying her status as one of the great soul singers of her time.
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.
