Seven seems to be a very lucky number for Gladys Knight—who has had an amazing career in music, with a discography to match her list of awards and honors. That list includes seven Grammys, induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame, the Kennedy Center Honors, and a National Medal of Arts.
Knight, dubbed “The Empress of Soul,” has been singing her heart out and capturing the love of audiences around the globe for over seven decades, since the age of seven. Born on May 28, 1944, in Atlanta, Georgia, the Empress celebrates her 78th birthday next Sunday. Given the amazing amount of music she has recorded—with The Pips, as a soloist, and with other music greats—it’s just not possible properly celebrate her on just one day. Seven days seems about right, so while Knight finishes up her 77th year, I’m going to be playing her tunes every day this week—starting today. Join me!
Black Music Sunday is a weekly series highlighting all things Black music. With over 160 stories (and counting) covering performers, genres, history, and more, each featuring its own vibrant soundtrack, I hope you’ll find some familiar tunes and perhaps an introduction to something new.