Gladys Knight, the legendary “Empress of Soul,” has finally opened up at 80 years old, confirming long-standing rumors that have intrigued fans for decades.

From her early beginnings singing in church at just four years old to becoming a global music icon, Gladys Knight’s journey is filled with triumphs, struggles, and surprising revelations.

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, Gladys grew up in a loving family where music was a central part of life, inspiring her to develop a powerful voice that would captivate millions around the world.

As a child, she performed at the Mount Mariah Baptist Church and quickly gained recognition for her talent, winning awards by the age of eight.

Her family formed a singing group called The Pips, which would later become Gladys Knight & The Pips, a group that achieved massive success with hits like “Midnight Train to Georgia.”

Despite their success, Gladys Knight’s career was not without challenges, including a difficult start at Motown Records, where she felt overshadowed by the label’s favoritism toward Diana Ross and The Supremes.

Gladys has openly shared stories of the tension and rivalry during those Motown days, revealing how Barry Gordy once told her that she and The Pips were “upsetting his act,” referring to Diana Ross.

This conflict eventually led Gladys Knight & The Pips to leave Motown and sign with Buddha Records, where they found greater creative freedom and released some of their biggest hits.

Their move paid off, with songs like “Midnight Train to Georgia” topping both pop and R&B charts, solidifying their place in music history.

Gladys Knight’s solo career also flourished alongside her work with The Pips, earning her 10 Grammy Awards and worldwide acclaim for her soulful voice and heartfelt performances.

However, her personal life has been marked by both joy and hardship, including three marriages, struggles with gambling addiction, and family conflicts that tested her resilience.

At just 16, Gladys became pregnant and married her high school sweetheart, James “Jimmy” Newman, but their marriage faced difficulties, including his battle with substance abuse and eventual separation.

She took a break from touring to focus on raising their children, demonstrating her devotion to family despite the pressures of fame.

Gladys later married music producer Barry Hankerson, with whom she had a son, Shanga Hankerson, but their marriage ended amid a bitter custody battle that deeply affected their family.

One of the most harrowing moments in her life was when her young son was kidnapped, forcing Gladys to spend a fortune to bring him back safely, showing her unwavering strength as a mother.

Her third marriage to motivational speaker Les Brown brought both inspiration and challenges, ending after two years, but not before helping Gladys write her successful autobiography.

Gladys Knight has also battled a gambling addiction that lasted over a decade, revealing how casinos once became a dangerous escape from the pressures of her career and personal life.

She has been candid about how gambling affected her family, including a wake-up moment when she missed taking her son to school after a long night at the casino.

With determination, Gladys sought help through Gamblers Anonymous, turning her life around and refocusing on her music and family.

Her faith journey has been equally profound, transitioning from Baptist roots to Catholicism, and eventually joining The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, inspired by her children’s beliefs.

Gladys even led the Saints Unified Gospel Choir, blending her musical talent with her spiritual devotion, and performing at major events like those in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Beyond music, Gladys Knight is known for her charitable work, raising hundreds of thousands of dollars for children’s causes and community centers, reflecting her commitment to giving back.

Her farewell tours, including a memorable UK tour in 2009 and upcoming performances in Australia and New Zealand, celebrate a remarkable career that spans decades and continues to inspire.

In 2022, Gladys received the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors, presented by President Joe Biden, recognizing her outstanding contributions to American culture and music.

Despite the ups and downs, Gladys Knight’s story is one of resilience, passion, and an unbreakable love for her family and fans.

Even after announcing farewells, she continues to perform and connect with audiences worldwide, proving that true artistry never fades.

Her relationship with her son Shanga has faced legal battles, including his prison sentence for tax evasion, which strained their bond and led to public disputes over business and reputation.

Through it all, Gladys has remained a pillar of strength, defending her legacy and standing firm against challenges that threatened her name and career.

Her late son Jimmy Newman III, who managed much of her career, passed away young, adding another layer of personal loss to her life’s story.

Yet, Gladys Knight’s enduring spirit shines through, inspiring new generations with her timeless music and heartfelt story of overcoming adversity.

From church choirs to global stages, from personal struggles to public triumphs, Gladys Knight’s life is a powerful testament to the enduring power of soul, love, and perseverance.

At 80, she finally breaks her silence, sharing the truths behind the rumors, and reminding the world why she is truly the Empress of Soul.