Who is Jean Knight? Career, death, net worth, age, Relationship

Jean Knight was an American R&B and soul singer from New Orleans, Louisiana, best known for her 1971 hit single “Mr. Big Stuff” released by Stax Records. She began her musical journey in New Orleans – an area famous for its rich musical tradition.

She was born on January 26, 1943, and passed away on November 22, 2023, at the age of 80. Knight died unexpectedly leaving fans and colleagues alike heartbroken at her death.

The singer’s family confirmed the news and stated that Knight died due to natural and age-related causes. The statement released by Knight’s family further that she passed away on November 22, 2023, at her home in New Orleans.

READ ALSO: Florida Highway Patrol trooper Zachary Fink dies in Crash while in the line of Duty

The statement also talked about her long and successful career.

Jean Knight music career

Jean Knight began her musical journey in the mid-1960s shortly after graduating high school, in Louisiana bar owned by her cousins and where several bands performed regularly.

Through these connections she met some key members in the music industry before her success began to soar after she released the hit single, “Mr. Big Stuff”, catapulting her into prominence within R&B scenes across the world.

The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart and No. 2 on the Billboard 200 pop chart, earning Knight a Grammy nomination for best female R&B vocal performance in 1972.

Jean Knight achieved great fame during her long and distinguished musical career, producing numerous albums such as “Keep It Comin’,” “My Toot Toot,” “Shaki de Boo-Tee,” and “Queen”.

Each record showcased Knight’s dynamic style while connecting with audiences of different generations; her contributions were acknowledged with numerous honours and awards that attest to both her talents and lasting appeal.

Jean Knight made an immeasurable mark on R&B music with her authentic, soulful performances that resonated with listeners of all kinds both musically and personally making her one of its great icons in this field.

She continued to tour and perform engagements all over the world, particularly in the Southern states, and was an integral part of New Orleans’ cultural legacy.

In addition to her singing career, Knight was also an entrepreneur. She established her own record label, Chimneyville Records, in the 1970s, demonstrating her business acumen and diversifying her income sources. The label released several successful albums, including her own, contributing further to her net worth.

Jean Knight’s impact on the music industry extended beyond financial achievements. She left a lasting legacy in R&B and soul music, inspiring generations of singers with her powerful vocals and soulful melodies. Knight’s legacy as a musical powerhouse and her impact on the music world were widely recognized following her passing.

Read also:Who is Jonathan Smith? Networth, Career, Wife, Children, Age

Jean Knight Relationships

Jean Knight was married twice, once to Thomas Commedore, with whom she had a son, Emile. In the early 1970s, she was also married to New Orleans longshoreman Earl Harris.

Jean Knight Net Worth

As of 2023 Jean Knight had an estimated net worth of about $5 million. This wealth was accrued from various sources, primarily her music career, which included album sales, touring, and royalties.

How will Jean Knight be remembered?

She was best remembered for her powerful voice and her contributions to Louisiana music, which earned her a spot in the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2007.

Knight’s legacy is not only musical but also a testament to the enduring love between an artist, her hometown, and the fans who adored her.