| Author | Message | ||
  isaiah imani (isaiah) 1-Arriviste Username: isaiah Post Number: 7 Registered: 8-2004 Posted From: 66.119.33.135 |
I have read somewhere posted at this site that some rank Gladys Knight behind Jean Terrell as a singer, and I would like someone to tell me how this legendary performer, who ranks, in my opinion, as one of 5 greatest divas of this genre, would even be compared alongside such a lightweight singer and performer as Jean Terrell??? Gladys Knight may well rank 1b alongside Aretha Franklin's 1a in this genre, and I say that out of respect to Ms. Franklin's renown as the Queen of Soul, but certainly not in respect to the lifetime quality and quantity of work produced by the two performers... In that respect, Ms. Knight easily ranks ahead of Ms. Franklin, as she continued to churn out art and soul, and maintain her chops long past Aretha's closing time... In fact, Ms. Knight can still flat blow soul, while the same cannot be said for The Queen... I am not comparing Gladys and Aretha, however... I am wondering how folks can dare compare Gladys with a Jean Terrell??? That's a mindblowin' decision if ever there was one... That's comparing Michael Jordan with Allan Houston, and neither is a contest... Granted, it is all a very subjective thing, but when measured against the quality and quantity of the two artist's work over the years, it really doesn't matter how well Jean Terrell sings... She's completely out of her class compared to Gladys Knight... Lastly, I read somewhere at SDF some silly remarks as regards Ms. Knight's appearance, and was informed last week by a friend, that her ex, Les Brown, had also made some very disparaging remarks about her, as well... Well, Mr. Les Brown, as well as others who spoke none to highly of Ms. Knights appearance need to look in the mirror, and see if what reflects back at them isn't the real image of ugly... Remarks about people's character is one thing, but nasty things said about their appearance reflects on the maker... We can't take back none of this stuff once an artist passes on, as did Rick James, last week... You're left looking quite phony and disingenuously ugly when you begin praising the artist to the high heavens after making disparaging remarks like those made about Gladys... Disrespect can Wreck, goes the saying... Peace! Isaiah (Message edited by isaiah on August 12, 2004) | ||
Reese (reese) 4-Laureate Username: reese Post Number: 130 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 12.15.169.219 |
What can one say? People are entitled to their own opinions. If someone appreciates Jean more than Gladys, that's their right. As far as criticisms of Gladys' appearance, I didn't read any of those comments. But I can say from personal experience that whenever I've seen her. she's always looked and acted classy. (Message edited by Reese on August 12, 2004) | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 6-Zenith Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 1250 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.163.57.185 |
IMO, Gladys Knight is one of the most soulful and heartfelt female singers on the planet. For me, she is more "earthy" and more believable than Aretha. Dont get me wrong, the Queen is great for what she does, and rightfully so, but Gladys is like being at a family cookout on a warm summer's day, the scent of magnolia blossoms in the air, cherry kool aid, some good home cooking and all the goodies that go along with that. And to me Gladys is beautiful inside and out!! I had the pleasure of meeting her at various times over the years, and she is one of the warmest human beings on earth! | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 1239 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.165.74 |
Hey Bobby; You got that right, couldn't have said it better! Gladys real and as soulful as one can get!! I've always loved her from the beginning!! S.S. | ||
Gary (gary) 4-Laureate Username: gary Post Number: 122 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 172.138.192.188 |
Hey Isaiah, is that you bruh? Welcome back my friend. Gladys has to rank up there with the best female vocalists of all time. Anybody who has ever seen her perform live knows what I'm saying. As for her appearance, what the hell are those critics talking about? I think she is lovely in every way. | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 6-Zenith Username: wonder_b Post Number: 646 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 80.15.98.113 |
Gladys has always been my favourite female singer of all time... period... no disrespect to any other singer... Class, soul, power, beauty she has it all... And reading her autobiography made my admiration go up one extra notch if it was ever necessary... her life is a novel...  A great early pic of her & the Pips  Classy, gorgeous & then some...  From the movie Pipe Dreams  More recent pic...  Another great shot of my N�1 soul singer Wonder B If you mess with the 'fro, you gotta go! | ||
Largo161 (largo161) 2-Debutant Username: largo161 Post Number: 17 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.142.0.75 |
I'd be interested to hear what folks think of Gladys' post Pips material: License To Kill Good Woman lp Just For You lp Many Different Roads lp At Last lp Thoughts? Choice cuts? Disappointments?? | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 1243 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.165.74 |
Hey WonderB; How u be Blaise? Here's some more Gladys for those who missed these shots in the past! S.S. "Early Gladys & Pips" (one of first promo shots when her first husband was in the group:  | ||
John Barry Sheffield (jaybs) 3-Pundit Username: jaybs Post Number: 66 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 195.92.168.167 |
I LOVE JEAN TERRELL and I think She is a Very Talented Singer - but I still think that Aretha, Dionne Warwick and Gladys just have the edge for class, but that does not distract one inch what talent JEAN has. John | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 1244 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.165.74 |
Took these shots a few years ago:  | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 1245 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.165.74 |
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Wonder B (wonder_b) 6-Zenith Username: wonder_b Post Number: 648 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 80.15.98.113 |
Hey Soul Sister thanks I am doing nicely. Nice oldie pic. I have that one too! LOL Just love this woman. Largo I think she outdoes herself on that James Bond track... License To Kill... He's got a license to kill and he's going straight to youuuuuuuuuuur heart... man when he put everything she's got on that note, I am scratchin myself everywhere! LOL Serious goosebumps stuff! LOL I now she could sing the yellow pages and get the same effect on me! LOL Just like at the end of the 'That's What Friends Are For' song when she just takes it home and buries some serious competition from Elton, Stevie and Dionne... no one can out-soul Gladys in the power department... I swear! Wonder B | ||
isaiah imani (isaiah) 1-Arriviste Username: isaiah Post Number: 8 Registered: 8-2004 Posted From: 66.119.34.39 |
Reese, you're are absolutely right... We all have the RIGHT to opine anything that pops into our minds, and I'm so happy to see you defending that... But in any field of professional endeavor, "better" and "best" are measured by a catalogue, a body of work. Are you, and those who love and like Ms. Terrell trying to tell me her catalogue, her body of work compares to Gladys Knight's body of work??? I mean, that is what I meant when I asked someone to tell me how Jean Terrell ranks above or alongside anywhere near this legendary performer... I'm a big sports fan, and I'd never compare some guy who was wonderful for 2 years with someone who was great for 15 and and damned good for 5 in a 20 year career... Point being this, Reese, and all the lovers of Jean Terrell, your opinion or mine should be about some critical thinking, and not just what you or I feel... I think Russell Thomkins has a stronger voice than Eddie Kendricks, but I'd never say he was better, because he aint(smile!) Eddie's body of work is greater, and therefore I think he's the greater performer... I aint going to no Jean Terrell Concert when Ms Gladys Knight's in town... Bottom Line... Peace! Isaiah | ||
Reese (reese) 4-Laureate Username: reese Post Number: 132 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 12.15.169.219 |
Hi Soul Sister: Its me again :-) The fifth Pip in the photo you posted is actually Langston George. He was on their early recordings. But he left after becoming dismayed with the lack of success the group was having. Gladys' first husband Jimmy Newman did appear with the group, but as their bandleader. Largo: I love the song LICENCE TO KILL. Being that it was a James Bond theme, I expected it to do much better than it did, but it pretty much bombed in the USA. But it was a top 5 hit in the UK. When it comes to her solo albums, I think JUST FOR YOU is the best. Almost every song (to me) is great. I particularly enjoy HOME ALONE and the END OF THE ROAD medley. The other albums GOOD WOMAN and AT LAST both have their moments, particularly the latter album. But for me, they lack the consistency of JUST FOR YOU. Her gospel/inspirational album MANY DIFFERENT ROADS was a big disappointment to me. I was expecting a knckdown Gladys gospel album, and this wasn't it. It has some good moments like PRECIOUS LORD and EVERYBODY. But on the whole, I think it could have been much better. | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 6-Zenith Username: wonder_b Post Number: 649 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 80.15.98.113 |
Isaiah, your last line sums it up... I feel the same! (I aint going to no Jean Terrell Concert when Ms Gladys Knight's in town... Bottom Line...) Plus I don't think there's one performer in the soul world who has a bag as full as Mrs Knight... She's been there since the mid 50's... just awesome when you think of it... And as you also said, her 'good' period lasted (and still lasts IMHO) way longer than Aretha's, even though Aretha's top work is also in a class by itself.... Wonder B If you mess with the 'fro, you gotta go! (Message edited by Wonder_B on August 12, 2004) | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 1247 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.165.74 |
Hi Reese; Thanks for the correction. I read her book long ago when it first came out about her 1st. husband's early appearences with the group, then lent the book to a girlfriend and never got it back, lol!! S.S. | ||
Reese (reese) 4-Laureate Username: reese Post Number: 133 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 12.15.169.219 |
Isaiah: If you read my post , you'll notice I never said if I liked Gladys or Jean. I just feel people have the right to like who they want. And how they come to that conclusion is really not for me to judge or agree with. People have their own standards. Even when it comes down to bodies of work. Someone might think Jean's matches Gladys'. Or that Russell's matches Eddie's. I can only speak for myself. It doesn't matter to me if someone has five classics or fifty classics. What I care about is how their gift touches me. Case in point: Diana Ross is my absolute favorite vocalist of all time, and has been since I was a small child. I have come in for my more than my share of criticism for this over the years. Many people will not agree, and will mention other singers who they feel are much better. Good for them. They'll listen to their favorites, and I'll listen to mine. | ||
SDF (handsome) 6-Zenith Username: handsome Post Number: 422 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 170.118.158.14 |
Hey Isaiah! I concur with Reese & Mr. Eli! I love me some Gladys! Handsome | ||
Largo161 (largo161) 2-Debutant Username: largo161 Post Number: 18 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.142.0.75 |
My thoughts on solo Gladys: License To Kill is OK. Gladys' vocals are strong as ever, but I don't like the lyric. I've always thought a better storyline would have featured Gladys issuing a warning about a heartbreaker ("HE'S got a license to kill/And he's going straight for your heart") Just For You is the album I return to least. The End Of The Road medley is fantastic. I wore that out back in 94/95! And I like Home Alone. But not much else grabs me. Did anybody see Gladys and Home Alone co-writer Ann Nesby duet on this song on the Fox Morning Show years ago? Next Time was such a disappointment considering Jam and Lewis produced it. Good Woman has a very 90s new-jack swing feel to many cuts that sound dated now, but I like this album because of the energy. It definitely has the most up-tempo cuts of any of these lps. I like to hear Gladys charging her way through a fast number. At Last has about five tracks that I still play. Please Help Me, Grandma's Hands, Love Hurts, I Wanna Be Loved and maybe my favorite is Just Take Me. Gladys just breezed through that song without doing anything fancy, but the mature beauty of her tones carries it off. Love Tom Dowd's production on that. Too bad he passed away 'cause I would have liked them to do more together. I know a lot of people feel the way you do, Reese, about Many Different Roads. It ain't gut-bucket gospel, that's for sure. But I'm fond of it. Mercy's Arms and Jesus Love Is Like A River and With A Smile are gorgeous ballads. I've seen Gladys in concert tease her audiences with a rip-roarin' bit of the gospel song Every Time I Feel The Spirit. I wish she had put some things like that on the record. (Message edited by Largo161 on August 12, 2004) | ||
Heikki (heikki) 4-Laureate Username: heikki Post Number: 97 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 81.17.193.223 |
Hi! Of the ladies Gladys is my all-time number one. I have almost everything she's ever recorded, starting from her very first single in '57 (Whistle My Love). She's certainly done a lot of duets, too - with Bill Medley, Ray Charles etc., and now on Ray's posthumous upcoming album there's one more duet with Gladys. Best regards Heikki | ||
Largo161 (largo161) 2-Debutant Username: largo161 Post Number: 19 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.142.0.75 |
Heikki, I've never heard that first Pips single (Whistle My Love). Is it true that Gladys does not sing lead--it's more of a group vocal? Dan | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 5-Doyen Username: paladin Post Number: 184 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Gladys is "number one" in my book. Just came back from seeing her while I was Vegas. Loved the songs she did by Jam & Lewis and dam near everyone else. Mr. Eli's analogy is on point, Gladys, summertime, some kool aid and a wrecka-player.......... | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 6-Zenith Username: wonder_b Post Number: 651 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 80.13.38.114 |
In Atlanta she has her own soul food (chicken & waffle specialty) restaurant handled by her son... Talk about home cooking... Yum Yum Gimme Some Wonder B | ||
Destruction (destruction) 5-Doyen Username: destruction Post Number: 274 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 199.173.224.20 |
The last time I heard Gladys was on one episodes of HBO's "Happily Ever After-Fairy Tales for Every Child" (All very well done I might add) she was a singer in an 'all-girl-band'. I've always been a big fan. She's far and away my fave female performer from Motown. Even as a kid, every time I was going through someone's record collection and I came across one of those purple Gordy records, I hoped it was something by her that I hadn't heard, cause I knew it had to be funky, with some serious bass behind it. On top of that, her looks and mannerisms always reminded me of my fave Aunt, who coincidently, was a big fan of her Buddah stuff. I consider "If I Were Your Woman", one of the greatest records of all time. Your mileage may vary. | ||
GO_GET_GONE_GIRL (gogogirl) 5-Doyen Username: gogogirl Post Number: 264 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 69.1.9.65 |
All, Surely Gladys Knight is well known as one of the greatest R&B/Soul/Gospel singers (male or female) of our time. She is a "Shining Star" and she has her own Galaxy of talent and essence. I adore her and The Pips. "Keep Going On Gladys W/Your Bad Self" Hey Isaiah. (Message edited by gogogirl on August 12, 2004) | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 6-Zenith Username: wonder_b Post Number: 652 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 80.13.38.114 |
It's funny that she's often mentioned as a singer from Motown... I cannot box her like that since I have her Fury, Maxx, Motown, Buddah, Columbia albums and more... I cannot pigeonhole her as a Motown product... Wonder B (Message edited by Wonder_B on August 12, 2004) | ||
SDF (handsome) 6-Zenith Username: handsome Post Number: 425 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 170.118.158.14 |
Check her out singing, "I'm Gonna Make You Love Me"! I'm sorry, She blows Diana out the water on this one! Handsome | ||
Satipe (satipe) 3-Pundit Username: satipe Post Number: 32 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 66.185.84.74 |
I have had the opportunity to meet with Gladys on several occasions and like others have written here, she is an extremely nice and genuine person. Her brother Bubba is exactly the same which is a testament to their up bringing. I did not know that her ex-husband Les Brown was saying bad things about her - shame on him as he is a motivational speaker by trade. | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1872 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
What's up everyone?? First of all........Les Brown, with all due respect, two words of advice.....SHUT UP!!! Make it three words....PLEASE SHUT UP!!! After hearing BOTH sides of the story, Mr. Brown would be better served leaving this topic alone. That all that I have to say about him. Has this year been declared the year of "Men Publically Bashing Their Ex's"??? Fellas...ENOUGH ALREADY!!! I have to concur with all of the pro-Gladys people. I don't really care about all of this emphasis on beauty. With that said, Gladys is simply one of the most NATURALLY beautiful women that I have ever seen. She's like that cute girl down the block we knew when we were growing up. Does anyone know what I mean?? I mean that cute little girl down the block with the dimples, that all of the fellas was crazy about. What made her so attractive was her personality. She was real & never acted stuck up, or tried to front. She was genuinely warm & friendly, without being pretentious. Everyone simply gravitated to her, even the other girls. She was sweet & popular & one other thing....REAL!!! That's how I've always thought of Gladys. Anyone who can see her innate attractiveness & beauty, must need a dark pair of shades, a cane & a seeing-eye dog! No disrespect meant to anyone!! To me, though an artist may create 2 or 3 masterpieces, a consistent body of work & longevity has to be considered. For example, my favorite Baseball players ever were Tommie Agee (RIP) & Roy White. In fact, 30 years later, I still wear #20 for Mr. Agee. Now, they had some good years & some GREAT MOMENTS!!! However, they're not Hall Of Famers, due to issues of overall quality & longevity. They weren't excellent for a long enough period of time. Though Tommie was my favorite player of all time, can I realistically say that he was the equal of Reggie Jackson??? Hank Aaron??? Willie Mays??? Babe Ruth??? Of course not!! I loved Tommie & he's still my favorite. However, reality comes into play & based on sheer numbers & years of quality, I have to rate those other gentleman over him. How can I do otherwise. I can admit that others were better than him, without it meaning that I can't love him. Hey, I'm no dummy. The record speaks for itself. Hey, think about this....some people still like Betamax  | ||
Ryon6 (tyrone) 2-Debutant Username: tyrone Post Number: 13 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 209.219.209.72 |
I've always thought Gladys Knight was the best soulful singer out there. I've enjoyed her tenures with Fury, Maxx, Motown and Columbia. Her stuff with Buddah, in my opinion, was too "pop" for my taste. Still not taking anything away from Ms Knight, I've always liked her and had wished and hoped that Motown would better promote her and the Pips, especially during the 70s. I, too, consider her a Motown artist because that is when I first heard her recordings. Some of my favorite Motown tracks are "I Don't Want To Do Wrong", "It Should Have Been Me", "It's Time To Go Now", "Make Me The Woman" and "Who Is She And What Is She To You". I also loved her Columbia work with Leon Sylvers and Ashford and Simpson. My favorite album during this period is About Love and my favorite single is "Til I See You Again". Someone had asked about her solo. This is something that I don't understand - how her solo efforts were of less quality than the group effort. I have her Good Woman, Just For You and At Last cds and have to admit that I do not play anyone of them. Something is missing! However, I did like "EOTR medley". Her rendition of "Superwoman" sucked compared to Karyn White's version. But back to the original statement, I love Jean Terrell but can't match her with Gladys, Patti, Aretha or Diana. Jean's in a class by herself as the others are. To this day, Gladys is the better singer, she still has the vocals. If I had to rank, Gladys would definitely be #1, then perhaps Ree Ree #2, Ms Ross #3 and Patti #4. Before I get kicked to the curb by some, the reasoning Patti ranked as she did is because when she's not singing, she's screaming and loud as hell. For instance, at the show that Patti performed for Dubya, with Jessica Simpson and others, during the last song, Patti was the only one you heard in the chorus. I love Patti but sometimes ..... One other thing, I've always liked "License To Kill". Juice, be kind!!!!! | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1878 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Hey Ryon, I'm trying, but don't nobody tallk about Gladys. I lose it when somebody talks about Gladys Diana too | ||
Nosey (nosey) 5-Doyen Username: nosey Post Number: 212 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.139 |
My all time favorite Glad song is "Neither One of Us". Floy Joy can't compare, sorry. | ||
Eli (phillysoulman) 6-Zenith Username: phillysoulman Post Number: 1261 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.163.57.185 |
If someone were to give me a list of the greatest artists of all time, past and present, and I was told that I could pick only one who I would like to produce, that one person would be Gladys Knight. | ||
Soulaholic (soulaholic) 5-Doyen Username: soulaholic Post Number: 406 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.41.40.105 |
Gladys, charted songs in the 60's, 70's 80's 90's 00's in 5 different decades. Only a handful of the great's have done that. A get to business, no messin around, it's time to throw down a 100% plus of myself in the tune Gladys!!!!!!!! If ever a four letter word should apply (DIVA)!! but, Gladys just doesn't have that BS attitude and holier than know mentality. She may not be the Godmother of Soul, but she sure has kept Soul close to her heart and given it her blood, being, and best! PS: Hello Isaiah (Message edited by Soulaholic on August 12, 2004) (Message edited by soulaholic on August 12, 2004) | ||
Ryon6 (tyrone) 2-Debutant Username: tyrone Post Number: 14 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 209.219.209.72 |
Bobby, Can't you coax her into the studio? Juice and everyone else, Please call me Tyrone. Ryon6 is just a moniker. | ||
Heikki (heikki) 4-Laureate Username: heikki Post Number: 100 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 81.17.193.223 |
Hi Largo161! Whistle My Love/Ching Chong (Brunswick 55048; '57). Although the Pips are very audible on the background, Gladys is clearly on the lead. I have a hunch this single could soon appear on a cd compilation, but let's wait for awhile still. We tried to book Gladys to Finland this summer, but they told me she simply was too expensive. Pity! Best regards Heikki | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 5-Doyen Username: paladin Post Number: 188 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Hey soulsister that pic you posted of Gladys and the Pips almost made me think I saw a ghost...the brother standing next to her looks erriely like Terry Weeks of the Tempts.....LOL....by the way Heikki, Gladys is doing very well for herself, she is the main act at The Flamingo Hotel in Vegas, since she resides in Vegas this fits her very well, she signed on with the Flamingo after a couple of years doing "Smokey Joes Cafe" at Ceasares......as mentioned above both Gladys and her brother Bubba who appears with her in both Smokey Joe and her stint at the Flamingo are two of the most down to earth and hospitable people you ever wanted to meet. God bless her.... Kdubya | ||
Don (don) 6-Zenith Username: don Post Number: 606 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.75.55.7 |
At times when folks talk about The Greatest R&B/Soul vocalist of all time Gladys and Arthea in polls have always rank as #1 or #2 of each other in fans picks and chooses. As much as I love Patti IMHO she sort of in the #3 slot. It was remarked that Gladys was the Queen of Soul, and I believed it then and I still do. As far as I'm concern there are two Queens. Don | ||
Heikki (heikki) 4-Laureate Username: heikki Post Number: 101 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 81.17.193.223 |
Hi Kdubya, I had a friend visiting Vegas recently and he also told me that Gladys is there now more or less on permanent basis and that she put up a good show. I'd love to see her live in Europe one day, though. Best regards Heikki | ||
Wonder B (wonder_b) 6-Zenith Username: wonder_b Post Number: 657 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 80.11.71.221 |
Kdubya do you know if she's performing every night, and if this show is sold out (most of the time) or not... I may go to L.A (not sure yet) at the end of the month and I was wondering if I could perhaps do the trip to Vegas and catch her live... Wonder B If you mess with the 'fro, you gotta go! | ||
~medusa~ (~medusa) 6-Zenith Username: ~medusa Post Number: 502 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 68.79.167.188 |
Well said Don. There are so many wonderful singers we've come to know and enjoy, and like anything else, we all have our own personal preferences. I really, really like and enjoy Chaka, Gladys, Patti, Oleta, Stephanie, Phyllis, etc., I've seen them all in person...and I applause them all as Great...but there's something about Aretha Franklin that sparks something in my soul when I hear her sing. Although she doesn't sound like she used to, whatever it is, it's still there. I don't know if it;s the way she expresses herself in voice, or how she puts some kind of special feeling in her songs...As long as she has breath and can carry a tune in a paper bag, Aretha Franklin will always be MY QUEEN of Soul. (Message edited by ~medusa on August 13, 2004) | ||
isaiah imani (isaiah) 2-Debutant Username: isaiah Post Number: 17 Registered: 8-2004 Posted From: 216.148.246.70 |
Medusa, I agree with you... I certainly didn't start this thread to compare Aretha and Gladys, even though that's a fairer comparison than Jean Terrell and Gladys... If I wanted to start some sugarhoneyicetea that would've been the way to go, but I wanted somebody to tell me, based on some serious evidence, how Jean Terrell could rank above Gladys Knight as a singer... Haven't seen that yet, and I'm still waiting(smile!) BTW, it aint no crime to compare artists... We've been through that on another ocassion... Everytime we say so-andso is my favorite, we've made a choice about whom we think is better whether we think we are or not... Peace! Zeke | ||
Alain Nguyen (soulgems) 2-Debutant Username: soulgems Post Number: 18 Registered: 7-2004 Posted From: 65.166.187.218 |
Isaiah, Here's my thought on comparing vocalists. I don't think the "body of work" should be the only criteria for deciding who's better as a singer. The body of work and accomplishements can be used to assess an "artist" but not necessarily his or her performance as a singer. There are many instances where great singers have given mediocre performances and unknown singers the performance of a lifetime on just one single. Very much like actors, I liked Nicole Kidman's performance in "The Hours" but not in "Practical Magic". A lot of it depends on how the artist is directed. So, when I say this singer is better than this one I try to be specific about the performance I'm refering to. And maybe we shouldn't try to compare because each one is unique. This being said, Gladys Knight is one of the few artist I like through her whole career. Even some of her more recent stuff. Does anyone remember "Love Overboard"? (Message edited by soulgems on August 13, 2004) | ||
StingBeeLee (stingbeelee) 2-Debutant Username: stingbeelee Post Number: 16 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 155.139.50.14 |
In my opinion, the Pips pushed, prodded and lifted Gladys to heights she doesn't seem to have in her solo efforts. She had to sing above, below, around and through the Pips, as their harmonies were some of the tightest around. Together, they just can't be beat as a group, I rank no one above them... I saw Gladys and the Pips in Nashville while at school in the eighties, I scraped up enough money to see them, and I came away disappointed, as they did not put on a good show. The next year they came to Nashville again and Gladys told the audience "Last year I did not put on a show that was worth your hard earned dollars, and we apologize, and we guarantee we will put on a good show today." Needless to say, they tore it up. By the fourth song, I was standing at the stage, Gladys took my hand, bent down and sang "Neither One of Us" to me. It don't get any better than that!!! | ||
~medusa~ (~medusa) 6-Zenith Username: ~medusa Post Number: 506 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 68.252.9.11 |
Isaiah, I know...I wasn't neccessary responding 2 U. (smile). Anyway, I like Jean Terrell also, but I have 2 say, she can't touch Gladys Knight. Now maybe 2 someone else, she's better. It's like when my Gramma used to make preserves, everybody wanted some. They're both sweet & fruity, but I've always liked Jam better. ...again, that's just my opinion. | ||
DyvaNaye (westside314) 6-Zenith Username: westside314 Post Number: 742 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 209.212.74.198 |
Gladys Knight is a "Queen OF Soul'...she is in my top 3 singers... | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1888 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
It's this simple, Gladys is underrated!!! I will agree that some of fire is lacking without The Pips. They had such chemistry, how could she not miss them?? To this day, I believe that Gladys deserves greater acclaim. I can't begin to compare Jean Terrell to Gladys. I enjoy Jean a great deal, butr Gladys is a whole different level. It would be unfair to compare the two. Gladys is more than 4 decades deep in Souldom. | ||
StingBeeLee (stingbeelee) 2-Debutant Username: stingbeelee Post Number: 17 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.43.129.8 |
Juicefree, I agree 100%!! Gladys is underrated. I guess that she and the Pips had been so good for so long, people took them for granted. Yeah, Gladys' and the Pips names should be sung far and wide, the depth and width of her catalog is breathtaking, you could discuss them all night and still not be finished. I have no quarrels with people who rate Aretha 1a and Gladys 1b. By the way, I saw Aretha at the 4 Tops 50 anniversary show, and she blew the house away! She still HAS IT!! | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1899 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
I agree Lee, Gladys had it, has it & God bless her! I wish that I were Les Brown. Me & Gladys could have had something special. GLADYS...WE COULD HAVE MADE IT At least I would have respected her, with no ulterior motives. Heikki: I've been trying to find Whistle My Love/Chng Chong on Brunswick. Have you any idea as to where I can find it??? Gladys in Vegas just seems strange. She's a down home girl to her heart!!! Tyrone: You got it!! | ||
Charise (mistrivia1) 5-Doyen Username: mistrivia1 Post Number: 360 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 198.81.26.46 |
JUICE READ YOUR EMAIL N O W!!!! | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1901 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Thank you Re Re dear!!! That was very good news & congratulations to you Good looking out there! Got rare stuff dere girrlll | ||
Heikki (heikki) 4-Laureate Username: heikki Post Number: 104 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 81.17.193.223 |
Hi Juicefree20, I think it will be published on a future compilation, but I guess we have to wait for awhile still. As soon as I know, I'll let you know. Best regards Heikki | ||
Juicefree20 (juicefree20) 6-Zenith Username: juicefree20 Post Number: 1904 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 24.46.184.162 |
Hello Heikki, Thank you very much for that info. I would love to hear both of those songs. They're the only two that I haven't heard from those early days. | ||
Jimmy Mack (luke) 6-Zenith Username: luke Post Number: 528 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 152.163.252.200 |
Geeeez--I just love Terrell's voice and Gladys is my second fave--sue me for my likes.Was not going into a historical dissertation. Yes Gladys' work is much more significant. Lets take it easy. | ||
BigSexee (mzmusik) 1-Arriviste Username: mzmusik Post Number: 5 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 64.12.116.138 |
As an all around performer.........Gladys blows everyone else out the water. I saw her and have it on tape when she was on Kelly & Company? anyway, she was talking about how she was doing a concert one day and she was taking request and a rather young woman asked to hear a song that she probably didn't know because "it's a new song by BeBe and CeCe Winans... Gladys said "poor thing she thought it was a new song and I didn't want to crack her face so I didn't say anything" and the band started in with I'll Take You There. Man Gladys tore that song up.....she only sang a few bars but she made it her own. I love the way she communicates....she talks to her audiences like they are her best friends. She is a very down to earth, classy lady. But she is sooooooooooo underrated. When are they going to do a Walk of Fame for her? What do you have to do to get them to do it. I'll call anyone I have to call, write anyone I have to write, email, telegram.......come on what's up with that? | ||
isaiah imani (isaiah) 2-Debutant Username: isaiah Post Number: 26 Registered: 8-2004 Posted From: 205.188.116.139 |
Soulaholic, what's happenin' Fella!!! Thanks for the shout, man!(smile!) ****************************** ******************** "Geeeez--I just love Terrell's voice and Gladys is my second fave--sue me for my likes.Was not going into a historical dissertation. Yes Gladys' work is much more significant. Lets take it easy." ****************************** ******************** Jimmy Mack, no one called you out personally, and frankly you are entitled to your right to love the voice of anyone you like, but you are NOT entitled to NOT have your opinions challenged(smile!) If that be the case, those Supremes songs you spoke none too highly of on your Supremes Least Favorite thread is a case where you should've taken it easy, correct??? Don't get me wrong, I respect your right to your opinions, and it makes for great discussion, but I don't believe you are entitled to not have your opinions challenged... Just suck it up, and defend your opinions, period... You make statements, and I make statements, and if we have misgivings about those statements, it is a good idea to think onlong and hard before publicly stating them. Once they are in print at this board, someone just might challenge them, and do so legitimately... Besides, it aint nothing but about some differences in opinions anyway... Nothing personal... Peace! Isaiah | ||
Vonnie (vonnie) 5-Doyen Username: vonnie Post Number: 259 Registered: 3-2004 Posted From: 152.163.252.200 |
Aretha+Gladys=Pure Listening Pleasure | ||
StingBeeLee (stingbeelee) 2-Debutant Username: stingbeelee Post Number: 21 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 68.43.129.8 |
YEAH! YEAH! YEAH! Vonnie!! I'd rather listen to the minor stuff that both ladies put out than the dreck that is out there today. And when you put on their classics (too many to mention) it's a heavenly listening experience. Both ladies knew that they needed that "call and response" like in gospel music, so Aretha had the Sweet Inspirations and the Sweethearts of Soul and Gladys had her Pips, and the background groups pushed them to new heights! | ||
Kdubya (paladin) 5-Doyen Username: paladin Post Number: 195 Registered: 5-2004 Posted From: 206.185.64.23 |
Yes for those who asked (Wonder B) she is at the Flamingo every night.........now of cousre she gets a night or two off........smile for me now, you can palce a call for showtime usually at 10:00 pm. She was there along with comdeian George Wallace.............. | ||
Davie Gordon (davie_gordon) 5-Doyen Username: davie_gordon Post Number: 185 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 212.219.250.2 |
Probably the thing I love most about Gladys is that she never over-sings. She'll interpret lyrics better than anyone I can think of with the most perfectly nuanced emphasis to bring out the meaning of the lyrics. She is an absolute treasure. Must admit I never think of Gladys in terms of being a "diva", a word that always has negative connotations to me. One of the things that always strikes me about the group is that whenever they're discussed by anyone who's worked with them is what decent, cooperative people they are. For me Gladys is a real lady - divas I can live without. Davie - Society for the Abolition of Divas [I posted that about a week ago on the Motown board - it shut down the thread. :-) | ||
zebop (zebop) 4-Laureate Username: zebop Post Number: 112 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 152.163.252.200 |
Heh, heh, I like that third pic of Gladys on Wonder B's Aug 12th post. I remember seeing her on the Jeffersons when I was about 12 and getting, really happy to see her? ;) | ||
Soul Sister (soul_sister) 6-Zenith Username: soul_sister Post Number: 1336 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 65.43.165.74 |
Hey zebop; I love that photo of Gladys the best too!! Here's another soul sister in her parka just not as cute as Gladys! S.S.  | ||
zebop (zebop) 4-Laureate Username: zebop Post Number: 113 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 152.163.252.200 |
That's very cute Soulsister ;) | ||
Largo161 (largo161) 2-Debutant Username: largo161 Post Number: 20 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 205.142.0.75 |
The Divine Ms. Knight will be impersonated by Brandy on "American Dreams" Sept. 26th. She'll be singing Grapevine. Can't wait to see that! | ||
SDF (handsome) 6-Zenith Username: handsome Post Number: 450 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 170.118.158.14 |
Largo161, I can think of others who could've impersonated Gladys, like the young lady who played "Laura" on the TV sitcom-Family Matters, who name escapes me. She could've lip-synched. Nothing against Brandy, but she couldn't sing anything for me in the Gladys vein...JMO. Handsome | ||
Largo161 (largo161) 2-Debutant Username: largo161 Post Number: 21 Registered: 4-2004 Posted From: 63.159.89.141 |
Handsome, I know what you mean. Brandy's not a belter, that's for sure! But I'm curious about how she'll interpret Gladys. I think Brandy is a good studio singer. |
