Jean Knight, the renowned R&B and funk singer best known for her 1971 hit “Mr. Big Stuff,” has passed away at the age of 80. The music world, particularly New Orleans, is mourning the loss of one of its most treasured musical daughters. Her family confirmed her passing in a statement shared via the Stax Museum of American Soul Music, revealing that Knight died on Wednesday. Born Jean Caliste, she released her first song in 1965, a cover of Jackie Wilson’s “Stop Doggin’ Me Around.” However, her major breakthrough came in 1971 with “Mr. Big Stuff,” securing her a deal with Stax Records. This iconic song, known for its catchy refrain “Who do you think you are?,” wasn’t just a hit—it was a soulful anthem that resonated through the Crescent City.
Knight’s success with “Mr. Big Stuff” was monumental, selling over one million copies and earning her a Grammy Award nomination in 1972 for best female R&B vocal performance, a category shared with legends like Diana Ross, Janis Joplin, Freda Payne, and winner Aretha Franklin. Knight’s family paid tribute to her deep connection with her fans, noting that her concerts were more than performances—they were celebrations of the bond she shared with those who loved her music. Whether performing in the cozy venues of the French Quarter or on global music festival stages, Jean Knight made each of her fans feel like a cherished part of her extended musical family. Her legacy in the music industry and her impact on her fans will be remembered fondly.
