R&B and soul legend Gladys Knight took to social media to announce that she is stepping away from performing.
She announced in a statement on Instagram on Thursday that she will be “easing into fewer performances” to be more present in her personal life.
“After much soul searching, I’ve decided that I will be easing into fewer performances while focusing on transitioning into the next stage of my career and life moving forward,” Knight wrote. “I’ll be spending more time on projects with my husband and visiting with my grandbabies and am looking forward to this new era.”
Knight’s announcement comes amid ongoing concerns about her health – and immediately following a clip released by TMZ showing her to be incoherent while on stage.
After sharing her statement on Thursday, Knight’s husband and manager, William McDowell, told TMZ that she has good and bad days, and that he is aware of her declining health. “No one is ever gonna make me say, ‘My wife is well,’ but all she wants to do is sing,” he told the outlet.
COMMENDATION & SPECIAL TRIBUTE
Expressing Deep Gratitude to Ms. Gladys Knight
Presented on September 1, 2026
Dear Ms. Gladys Knight,
On behalf of our broader community and all those whose lives have been enriched by your artistry, I write to extend our deepest gratitude and highest commendation for your decades of unmatched cultural excellence, extraordinary vocal talent, and steadfast devotion to community service.
Known globally as the “Empress of Soul,” your gift has transcended generations. Through every phrase, melody, and performance, you have brought warmth, grace, and undeniable soul into the hearts of millions. Beyond the timeless discography and classic anthems that defined an era of American music, your presence as a humanitarian and community leader reflects a life guided by purpose, integrity, and faith.
Pillars of Cultural Impact & Legacy
Dimension of Service
Recognition & Cultural Legacy
Vocal Mastery & Artistry
Decades of iconic vocal leadership, multi-Grammy Award-winning recordings, and timeless contributions to soul, R&B, and gospel music.
Cultural Heritage
Elevating American musical traditions on the global stage, preserving rich artistic lineage, and inspiring generations of emerging vocalists.
Community & Advocacy
Unwavering dedication to civic engagement, youth mentorship, charitable causes, and community upliftment across the nation.
A Tribute to Enduring Grace
Your lifelong contributions serve as a powerful reminder of how artistic mastery paired with genuine humility can transform communities and inspire positive change.
You have not only set standard after standard in musical excellence, but you have also modeled what it means to be a compassionate, engaged, and impactful community member.
We celebrate your remarkable journey, honor your extraordinary talent, and thank you for the timeless legacy you continue to build each day.
With profound respect and admiration,
Commissioner Dr. Barbara Milon, Ed.D
City of St. Louis
Thank you Ms Knight for all the joy, pleasure and love you have given to us over the years. Thank you and may God bless you.
The one song that stand out for me “Who is to be the first to say goodbye “
Thank you Mrs. Knight, you have done your thing for so long and so well. But it’s time, the standard you set will always be there/here. But your husband needs to do his job, this has been going on for a while now. I hope it is ego and not money; I don’t want to see you hurt on stage or looking lost. We will always love you. Stay blessed.