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Gladys Knight to Ease Into Fewer Performances

Viral concert videos prompted staff and family concern; management says a medical evaluation is planned and an early September show could decide whether remaining tour dates proceed.

Overview

  • The 82-year-old singer announced on Thursday that she will be “easing into fewer performances” to focus on family and projects while moving into the next stage of her career.
  • The decision follows widely shared audience videos from recent concerts that showed Knight appearing confused, missing cues, or leaving parts of songs to backup singers.
  • Tour staff and unnamed sources told outlets they were alarmed by some shows, and Knight’s son previously said touring was “detrimental,” though Knight has denied those claims.
  • Her husband and manager, William McDowell, has said she has not been diagnosed with dementia, that she has “good days and bad,” and that a medical evaluation is planned.
  • McDowell told reporters an early September performance will help determine whether scheduled dates through November proceed and that he is developing a nearby performance space to reduce travel demands.