Jean Knight (no relation, lol ) "Mr Big Stuff"

[KnightD12]

Jean Knight (born Jean Caliste, January 26, 1943, New Orleans, Louisiana)
After graduating from high school, Caliste began singing at her cousin's bar 'Laura's Place' and caught the attention of many different bands who were willing to accompany her. In 1965, she recorded a demo of a cover version of Jackie Wilson's song "Stop Doggin' Me Around. Her demo attracted record producer Huey Meaux, who signed her to a recording contract at the Jet Star/Tribe record labels. Shortly thereafter, Caliste adopted the professional name of "Jean Knight," because she felt that her surname was too hard to pronounce. She recorded four singles, making a name for herself locally, but was not able to attract any national attention. By the late 1960s, it was obvious that her career was not living up to her high expectations, so she went to work as a baker in the cafeteria of Loyola University in New Orleans.

In early 1970, she was discovered by songwriter Ralph Williams, who wanted her to record some songs. In May of that year, she went to Malaco Studios in Jackson, Mississippi for a recording session in which she recorded "Mr. Big Stuff." After the session was finished, the song was given to several national labels, who all rejected it. But when King Floyd's hit "Groove Me" (also recorded at Malaco Studios) became a #1 R&B hit in early 1971, Stax Records remembered Knight's recording of "Mr. Big Stuff," reconsidered, and released it. The song proved to be an instant smash in 1971, reaching #2 on the pop chart and becoming a #1 R&B hit. It went double-platinum and received a Grammy nomination for Best R&B Vocal Performance, Female; it lost to Aretha Franklin's version of "Bridge Over Troubled Water." A couple more minor hits followed, but disagreements with her producer and her label terminated Knight's involvement with Stax.

After leaving Stax, Knight recorded songs for various small labels, but was not able to gain any more recognition. She ended up performing and touring the local oldie circuit. Knight continues to tour and make live performances, often with such artists as Donna Summer and Gloria Gaynor.

[Shelley "SoleMann" King]

You sure she ain't no kin to you? yall look kinda alike around the eyes.....LOL

[Tonya Anderson]

Yes, they do resemble each other. LOL!!

[KnightD12]

Since she stopped making Hits, I no longer claim her. LOL

[Boo]

Gene, this you to be Mae's song

[Tonya Anderson]

Thanks for sharing this information.

[KnightD12]

One thing I`ve noticed about the band that plays for these "PBS Oldies Shows". They pay the music perfectly, just like when it was recorded. These guys are GOOD!!