Gladys Knight, 82, says she’s pulling back from performing while “transitioning” to the next stage of her life.
The “Midnight Train to Georgia” singer‘s announcement comes amid concerns from fans about Knight’s appearance.
“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,” she posted on her social media accounts.
Knight added that she’s “looking forward to this new era,” which will include spending more time on unspecified projects with her husband of 25 years, William McDowell, and visiting their grandchildren.
TMZ reported that fans Knight fans had grown “deeply concerned” that the Georgia native appeared out of sorts while performing at recent shows.
The statement posted by Knight on Thursday mentions nothing of her health.
“I’d like to take a moment, in advance, to thank all my fans over this last three quarters of a century for making a little girl’s dream come true and supporting her every step of the way,” she continued.
The seven-time Grammy Award winner found her voice singing in her Atlanta church’s choir as a child. She achieved pop =success with her bandmates, The Pips, who performed alongside Knight for nearly 40 years. The band was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1996.
Her son last year complained to North Carolina authorities that McDowell was committing “Mental and Financial” abuse against his mom, according to People. Knight assured those who may have been concerned that she was happy and in good health at the time.
Her recent message to fans indicates Knight isn’t calling it quits.
“I hope to see your smiling faces out and about and on the road,” she concluded. “God bless all of you and hope to see you soon.”
The next show on Knight’s schedule in a Sept. 11 performance in Cincinnati, Ohio.