
Throughout her life, Knight has faced challenges, including family struggles, health issues, and a decade-long gambling addiction. After losing $60,000 in one night at the baccarat table in the late '80s, she joined Gamblers Anonymous and successfully overcame her addiction.
In 2001, she married her fourth husband, William McDowell. Together, they have 17 grandchildren and 10 great-grandchildren and reside in Fairview, North Carolina. Knight is deeply committed to supporting orphans, and in 2023, she received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
"You're the Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me" is a song written by Jim Weatherly. It was first recorded in 1973 by Danny Thomas. Soon after it was done by Ray Price from his album You're the Best Thing That Ever Happened To Me.
Gladys Knight & the Pips recorded the song in 1974, their version, titled "Best Thing That Ever Happened to Me," reached number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 that spring and topped the Hot Soul Singles for two weeks. The single was certified gold by the RIAA for sales of one million copies. It also reached the top 10 in the United Kingdom.