John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts announced the selective honorees who would receive the 45th Kennedy Center Honors. The award was established for artists who hold a lifetime of artistic achievements. Among the list of distinguished artists is R&B soul singer Gladys Knight. The moment will be celebrated on December 4, 2022, as announced on Thursday.

The 78-year-old “Empress of Soul” expressed her gratitude, saying, “I’m humbled beyond words to be included amongst this prestigious group of individuals, both past and present.” Knight said. “You could never have told me as a young girl starting my career that I would be honored on a stage such as this, with artists and humanitarians such as these—it just wouldn’t have seemed possible.” 

The Empress of Soul continued, “It would have been the dream of all dreams. I have been blessed with so much in my life, and this certainly stands with those achievements at the top of that list. To be honored as a Kennedy Center Honoree is among the highlights of my career. I stand here with my fans, my family, my friends, my team, and my faith in accepting such an amazing distinction.” She praised those who helped her, “It is dedicated to all those who paved the path for me to be able to accomplish the wonderful blessings I’ve been able to receive. The Kennedy Center’s commitment to the arts is unparalleled, and I am so very grateful for this moment.”

David M. Rubenstein, the chairmen of the Kennedy Center, also offered his commendations about Knight. “In her 55-year music career, legendary singer and America’s beloved ‘Empress of Soul,’ Gladys Knight, went from the Pips of Georgia to Grammy royalty, showcasing a boundless vocal range and soulfulness that has stood the test of time.”

The prestige of the John F. Kennedy Center award hasn’t dulled through the years. It’s been a representation of “the very best of America’s creative culture,” Kennedy Center President Deborah F. Rutter said.

“The Honors is often referred to by past recipients as the pinnacle of awards because it recognizes not just one performance, album, or film, but esteems an artist’s cumulative body of work and influence over many decades. This level of distinction is important. Through this holistic viewpoint, each year’s Honorees add another layer to the complex and inspiring collage of artists that together tell the story of our collective contribution to global culture.”

Knight has been singing since eight years old and has been a prominent figure in the music industry. 

“Now, as the Center completes its yearlong 50th Anniversary celebration, I cannot help but think that the Kennedy Center’s namesake would surely smile at this celebration that brings us closer to his vision of ‘an America which will reward achievement in the arts as we reward achievement in business or statecraft.’”

Among those she’s honored with are George Clooney, Amy Grant, Tania Leon, and U2.