At 80 years old, legendary singer Gladys Knight has finally confirmed long-standing rumors about her personal struggles and triumphs, shedding light on her tumultuous journey through fame, family, and addiction. In a candid interview, Knight opened up about her battles with gambling, her complex relationships in the music industry, and her enduring love for her family.
Knight, often referred to as the “Empress of Soul,” has captivated audiences since she began her career at the tender age of four. Growing up in Atlanta, Georgia, she was surrounded by music, inspired by her parents’ involvement in their church choir. By the time she was eight, Knight was already winning awards for her singing, and eventually formed the iconic group Gladys Knight & the Pips, which skyrocketed to fame with hits like “Midnight Train to Georgia.”
However, her rise to stardom was not without its challenges. Knight revealed that her tenure with Motown Records was fraught with difficulties, particularly in her relationship with fellow artist Diana Ross. During an interview, Knight recalled a moment when Motown founder Barry Gordy suggested that her success was overshadowing Ross’s, leading to a painful rift that lasted for decades. Despite the tension, Knight ultimately reconciled with Ross, acknowledging that both women were young and navigating the pressures of the music industry at the time.
In addition to her professional struggles, Knight candidly addressed her personal life, including her battle with gambling addiction. For over a decade, she found herself ensnared in the allure of casinos, a passion that spiraled into an obsession. Knight described how her addiction impacted her family life, leading her to miss crucial moments with her 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren. It was only after a series of wake-up calls that she sought help, attending Gamblers Anonymous meetings and ultimately overcoming her addiction.
Knight’s family life has been marked by both joy and heartache. She has endured three marriages, each with its own challenges, including a difficult custody battle over her son Shanga, who recently faced legal troubles related to tax evasion. Despite these struggles, Knight’s love for her 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥ren remains unwavering. She has faced the tragic loss of her son Jimmy Newman III, who passed away at the age of 36, and continues to support her family through their trials.
In recent years, Knight has also encountered backlash for her decision to perform at the Super Bowl amid racial tensions in the NFL, particularly following Colin Kaepernick’s protest against racial injustice. Despite criticism, she stood firm in her belief that her performance could promote unity and understanding.
Now, as she prepares for yet another farewell tour, this time in Australia and New Zealand, Knight reflects on her remarkable career and the lessons learned along the way. From her early days in Atlanta to her status as a global icon, she has proven to be a resilient figure in the music industry, using her platform to advocate for justice and equality.
Gladys Knight’s story is one of perseverance, love, and redemption, and her willingness to share her truth at this stage in her life serves as an inspiration to many. As she continues to grace the stage, her legacy as a beloved artist and a courageous woman remains firmly intact.
