Gladys Knight has said she will gradually reduce the number of live performances she gives, describing the decision as a transition into the next stage of her career and life. The 82-year-old singer plans to spend more time on projects with her husband and with her grandchildren, while still suggesting she expects to appear in public and perform occasionally.

Her announcement follows concerns about a recent Hollywood Bowl performance with Smokey Robinson, where Billboard reported that Knight relied heavily on backing singers. Knight rose to prominence with Gladys Knight and the Pips, whose 1973 hit “Midnight Train to Georgia” reached No. 1, and has received major career honours including a 2024 Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2023 National Medal of Arts and Kennedy Center Honors in 2022.