February 13th: Today’s Feature

February

Part II: Beverley Knight

Creativity and Influences

Growing up in a Pentecostal Jamaican household, Knight's childhood was deeply influenced by music, particularly gospel music. At the age of four, she joined the gospel choir at her local church and eventually became the musical director before leaving in her late teens. Her musical education extended to her home, where her family would gather around the piano to sing together and listen to their favourite gospel and soul artists, including the legendary Sam Cooke.

Cooke's music had a profound impact on Knight, being the first voice she ever heard on record. His ability to transform simple Bible stories into powerful two-and-a-half-minute songs with unmatched intensity and passion left a lasting impression on her and continues to move her emotionally to this day.

Throughout Knight's career, the influence of Cooke is evident as she has frequently performed and recorded his classics, with "A Change Is Gonna Come" being the most notable. This track, which became a symbol of the civil rights movement in the 1960s, has been featured in many of Knight's live performances, often accompanied by the London Community Gospel Choir.

Additionally, Knight collaborated with musician Jools Holland to record a studio version of the song, which was included in his album Small World, Big Band Volume 2. Another significant influence on Knight's upbringing was Aretha Franklin.

In addition to leading a tribute to Franklin at the BBC's Music of the Millennium concert in 1999, Knight has also recorded several of Franklin's tracks, including "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man" and "Think". These songs were released as B-sides on Knight's singles "Rewind (Find a Way)" and "Made It Back 99" respectively.

Franklin's vocal delivery has had a profound impact on Knight, teaching her about phrasing and evoking emotions. Knight describes how Franklin's voice can make her cry and then bring her into a state of musical ecstasy. The albums "I Never Loved A Man" and "Amazing Grace" hold a special place in Knight's heart, as they represent her childhood and will forever remain significant to her.

Knight's repertoire extends beyond her own original songs. She has also recorded covers of songs by renowned artists such as Stevie Wonder and Curtis Mayfield. These influences are not only evident in her recorded music but also in her live performances, where she often incorporates songs by her heroines such as Nina Simone, Chaka Khan, and Billie Holiday.

In addition to the classic soul and gospel artists, Knight's musical outlook has also been shaped by modern artists like Mary J. Blige and D'Angelo. However, one of the most significant influences on her music comes from Prince, whom she considers one of her heroes. Knight recalls listening to Prince's music since she was a child and admires his ability to tell stories through his songs, even if she didn't fully understand the implicit sexuality at a young age.

Knight's musical exposure and influences expanded as she grew up. Starting with gospel, she delved into soul, funk, and R&B. Growing up in the Midlands, she was exposed to a diverse range of musical styles and cultures, unlike the more segregated music scene she observed in London. This multicultural environment had a profound impact on Knight's musical influences and contributed to the unique blend of genres in her music.

Knight's fourth studio album, Affirmation, showcases the true essence of diversity. Collaborating with Guy Chambers, the album took on a more mainstream vibe, setting it apart from her previous works. The rock guitar-infused single, "Come as You Are," became her most successful chart-topper yet. However, Knight faced backlash from urban radio and media for straying too far from her urban sound.

Despite the criticism, the song served as a testament to Knight's unwavering determination to break free from stereotypes and avoid being confined to a single genre.

Accolades

Knight was honoured with the appointment as a Member of the Order of the British Empire in the 2006 Birthday Honours for her contributions to music. Queen Elizabeth II presented her with the award at Buckingham Palace in February 2007. Knight expressed that the recognition not only acknowledged her career but also her charitable work, which holds great importance to her. She mentioned that she engages in charity work not for the sake of receiving awards, but because it is a heartfelt endeavour. However, she hoped that the recognition would bring attention to the charities she supports.

In September 2005, the University of Wolverhampton bestowed Knight with an honorary degree as a tribute to her remarkable contributions to music, her local community, and her extensive charity work. Upon receiving the Doctor of Music title, Knight proudly acknowledged her identity as a black, female, and British individual, emphasising that she has not forgotten her roots.

On 7 January 2010, Knight emerged as the winner of the BBC's television quiz series Celebrity Mastermind, where she showcased her knowledge on "The Life and Times of Prince." Throughout the show, Knight supported the Terrence Higgins Trust as her chosen charity. Additionally, she delivered a captivating performance of "I Am What I Am" during the Paralympics Opening Ceremony on Wednesday 29 August 2012.

On 16 May 2018, Beverley Knight received the Freedom of the City of Wolverhampton, a personal award that she shared with the entire city. Being born and raised in Wolverhampton, she expressed her gratitude for such a significant accolade. Knight took to Twitter the next day to announce that she had become an honorary Freeman of the City, a distinction held by only around 30 individuals in the city's history.

The Mayor of Wolverhampton, Cllr. Phil Page, emphasised that the Freedom of the City is a rare and prestigious honour, reserved for exceptional individuals. He praised Knight for her remarkable achievements as a recording artist, performer, West End star, and charity ambassador. Page highlighted not only her accomplishments but also her exemplary conduct and unwavering dedication to Wolverhampton and its people.

In addition to her successful career, Beverley Knight is a devoted supporter of Wolverhampton Wanderers F.C., her hometown football club. On a more personal note, she tied the knot with her boyfriend, James O'Keefe, on 8 September 2012.