Music legend Gladys Knight has addressed growing concerns from fans after viral clips from her recent performances showed the 82-year-old singer appearing to struggle on stage.

The seven-time Grammy Award winner, widely known as the “Empress of Soul”, said she has decided to reduce her performance schedule as she enters a new phase of her life and career.

In a statement, Knight said she would be “easing into fewer performances” while focusing more on personal projects, family time and spending time with her loved ones.

“I’ll be spending more time on projects with my husband and visiting with my grandbabies and am looking forward to this new era,” she said.

The announcement came after footage from some of her recent concerts sparked concern among fans, with clips showing the veteran performer appearing distracted, looking away from the audience and at one point attempting to leave the stage during a show at the Hollywood Bowl.

Some members of her touring team reportedly expressed concerns about her wellbeing, with sources claiming they feared she may be showing signs associated with cognitive decline. However, Knight’s husband and manager, William McDowell, said she has not been diagnosed with dementia.

McDowell said Knight still has a passion for performing but admitted she experiences “good days and bad days”.

“No one is ever going to make me say, ‘My wife is well,’ but all she wants to do is sing,” he reportedly said.

He added that the couple plans to seek medical evaluation in the future and that he would closely monitor her upcoming performances before deciding whether remaining tour dates should continue.

Knight’s recent health concerns come months after a separate family dispute involving her son, Shanga Hankerson, who previously accused McDowell of elder abuse — allegations Knight denied.

The singer dismissed those claims at the time, assuring fans that she was healthy and happy.

Throughout her career spanning more than seven decades, Knight has become one of the most respected voices in music history, delivering timeless classics including “Midnight Train to Georgia,” “Neither One of Us,” “If I Were Your Woman,” and the James Bond theme “Licence to Kill.”

As fans continue to rally around the soul icon, Knight’s latest statement suggests she is choosing a slower pace while protecting her health and legacy.

The Empress of Soul’s voice may have defined generations — but now, fans say her wellbeing matters more than the spotlight.