The group was renamed Gladys Knight & The Pips, and following George’s departure in 1962, the classic line-up was in place. The group debuted their first album in 1960, when Knight was just 16.

Was just amazing. Speechless." Jim Weatherly, the songwriter behind a string of 1970s hits for Gladys Knight & the Pips, including the destined-for-standard-status “Midnight Train to Georgia ...

Inspired by the relationship of a 70s celebrity couple, "Midnight Plane To Houston" became "Midnight Train to Georgia" – and Atlanta R&B group Gladys Knight and the Pips' best-known tune.