Gladys Knight’s career started in the heyday of the Motown label. While not ever considered to be in the class of divas like Diana Ross, Ms Knight has a strong following and reputation among true and dedicated fans of soul music. Together with her backing vocal group, the Pips, she has recorded some of the more memorable soul standards in the genre’s history, including her signature song, “Midnight Train to Georgia” and “I heard it Through the Grapevine”, which was recorded by Marvin Gaye, but only after first being sung by Gladys Knight and the Pips.

Entering (and winning) a TV talent show at the age of seven is what started Gladys Knight out in her career of singing, and later stardom. Signing up with Motown in 1966 would be the next big step in the singer’s career. Gladys Knight and the Pips would open for Diana Ross and the Supremes and then later be removed from their tour. According to Ms Knight, this was because her singing overshadowed that of Ross.

Hit Songs by Gladys Knight and the Pips:

• “Midnight Train to Georgia”

• “Friendship Train”

• “I don’t Want to Do Wrong”

• “When a Child is Born” (with Johnny Mathis)

• “Love Overboard”