With a career spanning over six decades, Gladys Knight is a name that has become synonymous with soul music. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1944, Knight started her music career at the age of seven when she joined her siblings to form a singing group called "The Pips."
As a member of The Pips, Knight rose to fame with hits like "Midnight Train to Georgia," "Neither One of Us," and "If I Were Your Woman." Her powerful voice and commanding stage presence captivated audiences around the world, earning her the title "Empress of Soul."
Besides her music career, Knight has also made a name for herself in the entertainment industry as an actress, author, and philanthropist. Her contributions to music and culture have earned her numerous accolades, including seven Grammy Awards and a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
In this article, we'll take a closer look at Gladys Knight's biography, age, height, figure, and net worth to give you a comprehensive insight into the life and career of this legendary artist.
Gladys Knight
Early Life and Background
Gladys Knight was born on May 28, 1944, in Atlanta, Georgia. She was the third of six siblings and was raised in a musical family. Her mother, Sarah Elizabeth Wood, was a gospel singer and her father, Merald Wood Sr., led a gospel choir. Her family was active in their local church, often singing in the choir and participating in church events.
At the age of seven, Knight won her first talent competition. She formed a group with her siblings, called the Pips, and began performing at local events. As a child, Knight's family moved frequently, and she attended several different schools. Despite this, she remained focused on her music and continued to perform with her siblings.
In 1957, when Knight was 13 years old, she and her siblings auditioned for a record company executive. The executive was so impressed with their performance that he signed them to a record contract. The group, now called "Gladys Knight and the Pips," began recording music and touring across the United States.
Career Beginnings
Gladys Knight began her music career in the 1950s with her siblings in a group called The Pips. They performed at various venues in Atlanta and became known for their soulful sound and Knight's powerful voice.
In 1960, the group signed with the Motown label and took on the name Gladys Knight and The Pips. They released their first album, "Everybody Needs Love," in 1967 and scored their first hit with the single "I Heard It Through the Grapevine."
The group continued to release successful albums throughout the 1970s, with hits like "Midnight Train to Georgia" and "Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me."
In addition to her music career, Knight has appeared in various films and television shows, including "Pipe Dreams" and "A Different World." She has also published a cookbook, "At Home with Gladys Knight: Her Personal Recipe for Living Well, Eating Right, and Loving Life."
Success and Achievements
Gladys Knight is not just a famous artist but also an accomplished musician, songwriter, actress and author. Her career has spanned for over six decades, and throughout this period, she has achieved numerous feats that many artists can only dream of.
She became popular because of her unique voice and her ability to perform effortlessly on stage. As a result, she has won multiple awards over the years, including seven Grammy Awards, an American Music Award, and even a Tony Award. Gladys has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and also received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Besides her music career, Gladys Knight is a successful entrepreneur and has built a brand that includes restaurants and other ventures. She has also appeared in a number of movies and TV shows and even wrote a cookbook. Her net worth is a testament to her exceptional work ethic, estimated to be around 28 million dollars.
Despite all her achievements, Gladys remains humble and takes time to advocate for worthwhile causes. She supports various charities, including programs that help disadvantaged children and breast cancer research. Her philanthropy sets an example for aspiring artists and fans alike.
Personal Life and Trivia
Gladys Knight has been married four times and has three children. Her first marriage was to musician James Newman in 1960, but they divorced in 1964. She then married music producer Barry Hankerson in 1974 and they had one child together before getting a divorce in 1979.
In 1995, Knight married motivational speaker Les Brown, but they divorced after only a year. Her fourth and current husband is William McDowell, whom she married in 2001.
Aside from music, Knight has also dabbled in acting. She has appeared in several television shows and films, including "Jingle Jangle: A Christmas Journey" and "Empire."
Knight has also been an advocate for social and political issues. She has supported various charities, including the American Diabetes Association and the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. In 2019, she performed the national anthem at the Super Bowl and faced criticism for doing so amidst the controversy surrounding Colin Kaepernick's kneeling protest.
One interesting fact about Knight is that she is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, a religion not commonly associated with African-American performers. She converted in 1997 after meeting with missionaries and has spoken publicly about the impact it has had on her life.
Net Worth and Contributions
Gladys Knight has amassed a significant net worth of over $28 million throughout her successful career in the music industry. She has been active for over six decades and has accumulated wealth through her contributions as a singer, songwriter, and actress.
Knight's legacy in music is undeniable, as she is often referred to as the "Empress of Soul." Her soulful and powerful voice has left an imprint on the music industry and inspired many artists to follow in her footsteps.
One of Knight's most significant contributions to the industry is her role in breaking down racial barriers in the music industry. She used her platform to advocate for equality and encouraged other musicians to do the same.
Knight's philanthropic efforts have also played a significant role in her legacy. She founded the 'Gladys Knight Chicken & Waffles Restaurants' franchise in Atlanta, which employs over 700 people. The franchise is committed to giving back to the community and supporting local charities through various initiatives.
Overall, Gladys Knight's net worth is a reflection of her hard work, dedication, and contributions to the music industry and the community as a whole.
FAQ
Who is Gladys Knight?
Gladys Knight is an American singer, songwriter, and actress.
What is Gladys Knight's age?
Gladys Knight was born on May 28, 1944, which makes her 77 years old as of 2021.
How tall is Gladys Knight?
Gladys Knight is 5 feet 4 inches (163 cm) tall.
What is Gladys Knight's net worth?
As of 2021, Gladys Knight's net worth is estimated to be around $28 million.
What are some of Gladys Knight's notable achievements?
Gladys Knight has won seven Grammy Awards, was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1996, and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 1995.
