A Legacy of Resilience and Artistry
Pattie LaBelle never imagined that her journey in the music industry would span over six decades. Starting at just 14 years old in the 1960s, she embarked on a path that would eventually lead to an extraordinary career marked by resilience, creativity, and unwavering passion. Now, at 72, she reflects on how far she has come, emphasizing that every moment on stage is a gift.
“I think of my sisters who all passed before they turned 50, and so I thought that I would be one who also would have a lifetime to leave at a certain age,” LaBelle shared. “So, when I turned 70, I said, ‘I’m still doing it.’ They’re coming to the four of us and loving what they see because we’ve not stopped. We’re phenomenally into what we do. There’s no pretending – none of us.”
LaBelle, alongside Chaka Khan, Gladys Knight, and Stephanie Mills, is currently touring across America with “The Queens: 4 Legends 1 Stage Tour.” This tour marks a significant milestone for these legendary artists, as they bring their iconic performances to audiences nationwide. The second leg of the tour kicked off in Greensboro, North Carolina, and will continue through October 5 in Cleveland.
A Celebration of Musical Excellence
The tour, organized by The Black Promoters Collective, showcases the timeless hits that have defined each artist’s career. Fans can expect to hear classics such as Chaka Khan’s “I’m Every Woman” and “Sweet Thing,” Gladys Knight’s “Midnight Train to Georgia” and “Neither One of Us (Wants to Be the First to Say Goodbye),” Stephanie Mills’ “Home” and “Never Knew Love Like This Before,” and Pattie LaBelle’s “The Right Kinda Lover” and “You Are My Friend.”
Each performance features a rotating stage that transitions smoothly between the artists, ensuring that every act receives the spotlight they deserve. This dynamic setup allows each performer to connect with a diverse audience, including multiple generations of fans.
A Lasting Impact on Music and Culture
Individually, these four icons have left an indelible mark on the music industry and pop culture. Their contributions are celebrated not only for their artistic excellence but also for their commitment to preserving R&B roots without compromising their integrity for commercial success. Fans and critics alike admire their dedication to authenticity and their refusal to conform to trends.
Chaka Khan, whose life story will soon be brought to the stage in the West End production “I’m Every Woman,” spoke about the emotional connection she feels with her fans. “I hear it all the time. You know, ‘I was weaned on you,’ from mother to grandmother, on down. It’s lovely to hear,” she shared. “I’m sure I can’t grasp the feeling that they’re feeling, but I get it, I think. And I think it’s pretty special.”
Despite their numerous accolades, including being inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the artists acknowledge the rarity of assembling a tour featuring legacy performers at this stage in their careers. For Khan, however, the most meaningful aspect of her career is not the fame or the recognition, but the simple act of staying alive.
Embracing Life and Legacy
Khan, who has openly discussed her past struggles with substance abuse, emphasized the importance of perseverance. “Staying alive,” she said, reflecting on her journey. “I probably took it for granted at some point in my life.”
As the tour continues, LaBelle remains focused on the joy of performing and the blessing of being able to share her talent with new and old audiences alike. She recently launched a new syrup from her popular food line, further expanding her creative endeavors.
“My favorite part is just being able to do it at my age still,” she said. “Most people hide their age when they turn 50, (saying) they’re still 40 … it’s a blessing, it’s a graduation. And it’s like I said, at this age, don’t be afraid to do anything … you can’t stop living.”
