Gladys, Patti, Chaka - Don t Call Us Divas!

It is no secret that the 3 women in question helped to shape America's perception of what Music and song is all about. I am talking about the History making soulful sounds of Patti Labelle, Chaka Khan and Gladys Knight. Long before there were the Beyonce's, Mariah's, Pixler's and Winehouses' there were these women who brought us some of the most memorble songs that have outlasted the creation of 'bic'pen...

Recently, the trio had a sat down with Entertainment Tonights' Cojo, where they stated that they were only hardworking women and were not to be confused with the title of "diva.' Gladys Knight alluded to divas, in essence, as being spoiled and pampered women who had everything handed to them on a silver platter. A sentiment obviously felt by Chaka and Patti. Patti Labelle in talking about appearances said she hated wearing makeup... stating how she would like to just appear onstage devoid of all the glamour, wearing her own hair in a ponytail. Chaka quickly nixed that idea, however, telling Patti not to do it!

Looking at these three great woman of song, I couldn't help but take note of how in the second phase of life, this interview might be viewed as one of wistfully denial. You see, aging gracefully, in my opinion, is something that should be embraced with dignity and panache... No doubt, Gladys, Chaka and Patti were Divas in every sense of the word back in their heyday. To deny its title now, should be done with grace and dignity, not in flatout refusal to honor ever having referred to themselves as such.

My two cents to these three divas of yesterday would be to give thanks for the memories and exist gracefully as trend setters for those Divas sure to follow... With Tina Turner, Cher and Donna Summer making a Diva comeback, I'd be thrilled to learn their take on the subject.

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