Renowned music legends Chaka Khan, Patti LaBelle, Gladys Knight, and Stephanie Mills concluded their much-anticipated Queens Tour on May 31, performing their final show in Jacksonville, Florida. After more than a year on the road, the iconic quartet charmed audiences with their powerhouse performances, celebrating their illustrious careers along the way.
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In a conversation with PEOPLE, Chaka Khan reflected on the experience, expressing mixed feelings about the demanding schedule. “It was tough. We haven’t toured like that in many years,” she stated. Khan humourously noted that the most enjoyable aspect might have been “when it was over.” Despite the grueling nature of the tour, she emphasised the joy of shared performances with her fellow musicians, noting, “It was a great show, and we had a great time working together. It was just a lot.”
Khan, now 73, spoke fondly of the camaraderie that developed during the tour. “I love the fact that we were all up there working together,” she said. The mutual respect and affection amongst the artists were evident, as Khan recalled her long-standing friendship with LaBelle, stating, “I’ve known Patti for a long, long time. We’ve been friends for a very long time, so it was nice to get back with her. And also Gladys is lovely.”
The tour saw these music giants delivering some of their biggest hits, bringing joy and nostalgia to their audiences. The response from fans throughout the tour, according to Khan, was overwhelmingly positive, adding, “The audiences have been so great.” However, despite the engaging performances, Khan revealed that the group did not mingle much outside of their shows, saying, “No, it was totally work. It was one stage to the next.”
On the horizon for Khan is a new album titled “Chakzilla,” set to be released on September 18. The album features collaborations with pop sensation Sia and is aimed at showcasing a vibrant pop-dance sound. “It’s a really, really great album, a great CD with great songs,” Khan enthused. Excited about the project, she mentioned that it includes various contributions from notable artists, indicating a diverse musical offering.
“Chakzilla” marks Khan’s first release since her 2019 album “Hello Happiness.” Following her induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2025 and receiving the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2026, Khan expressed gratitude for the recognition, stating, “Anytime someone gives you kudos like that, it’s a beautiful thing.”
Looking ahead, Khan’s focus remains firmly on the future, as she identifies herself as “a real next girl,” emphasising her forward-thinking mindset. The veteran artist seems poised to continue pushing musical boundaries, much to the delight of her fans.
As the curtain falls on the Queens Tour, Khan and her fellow icons leave behind a legacy of exceptional performances and lasting memories. With new music on the way, it is clear that Chaka Khan is far from finished, ready to take her fans on another exhilarating journey through her artistry.