Jean Knight, a New Orleans-born soul singer known for her biggest Billboard top-ranking hit in 1971, "Mr. Big Stuff," died at 80, as confirmed by family representative Monica Giamanco on Monday. Although reports suggest she died on November 22 in Tampa, Florida.
Giving Stax Records its biggest hits of all time and becoming Stax Records' top-selling female artist, Knight was a prominent figure in the New Orleans music scene and left an indelible mark on the world of R&B. Knight after "Mr Big Stuff" also received a Grammy nomination in 1972 for her sassy single.
The Legacy Of Jean Knight:
On Monday afternoon, Monica Giamanco, a family representative, confirmed the legendary soul singer's death at the age of 80 due to natural causes in Tampa, Florida, on Wednesday, November 22.
The Grammy-nominated singer was a prominent name in R&B music history, as she was considered a musical powerhouse for her powerful vocals and captivating stage presence infused with the vibrant energy of New Orleans' cultural legacy.
As fans, veterans from the industry, friends, and family mourn the legendary singer's death, her family said in a statement, "Jean Knight's legacy is not just a musical one; it is a testament to the enduring love between an artist, her hometown, and the fans who adored her.”
Knight began singing soon after high school at a cousin's bar in New Orleans, and her career began in the 1960s with various singles with the labels Tribe and Jetstream, including the recording of 1965's Jackie Wilson's song "Stop Doggin' Me Around."
Knight's big breakthrough was in the early '70s, when she recorded her Stax Records best-selling song in its history, "Mr. Big Stuff," a sassy soulful chart-topping anthem known for its catchy refrain, "Who do you think you are?" - The song was No. 1 on Billboard's top R&B songs and No. 2 on the top 200 pop chart songs, earning Knight a Grammy nomination in 1972.
Knight continued releasing several other singles throughout the 1970s, and her other hit single "Don't Mess With My Toot Toot" in 1985 and "Bill" led her to start her own music label, Comstar. Knight was also inducted into the Louisiana Music Hall of Fame in 2007.
Beyond her musical achievements, Knight was a loving grandmother and mother "who loved cooking Creole dishes and celebrating Mardi Gras."
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