Music icon Chaka Khan, also known as Yvette Marie Stevens, recently revealed some significant changes she's making in the new year, including bidding farewell to touring and resolving a longstanding feud with Kanye West.
The 70-year-old legend cited harsh travel conditions as the primary reason for stepping away from touring. In a recent interview, she vividly described the challenges of life on the road, emphasizing the discomfort of bus travel, limited bathroom facilities, and the constant struggle with exhaustion. Khan expressed her discontent, stating, "It's like being a truck driver and a performer. It's lonely as all get-out."
One intriguing insight into her decision came when asked about the possible title of her memoir, where she explained the grueling reality of touring life. She emphasized the lack of normalcy, with mornings spent hours away from a proper bath or shower, leading her to label it as "friggin' insane."
Khan's decision is not only fueled by a desire for personal comfort but also a shift in priorities. The Rock & Roll Hall of Famer is eager to focus on her family, particularly her adult children, daughter Indira Milini and son Damien Holland, both of whom have children of their own. Expressing her rich family life, she noted, "I've got great-grandchildren I want to get to know better."
While Khan asserted her decision to step back from extensive tours, she clarified that she's not retiring from performing altogether. She plans to engage in individual shows but aims for a better work-life balance. Her intention is to have spaced-out dates that allow for adequate rest between performances, ensuring she can enjoy the richness of her life outside the spotlight.
Chaka Khan's decision to prioritize family and well-being over the demands of touring reflects a seasoned artist's wisdom. With a career spanning over five decades, she has achieved remarkable success, earning 10 Grammy Awards, three gold singles, one platinum single, four gold albums, and two platinum albums. The iconic "I'm Every Woman" artist is now ready for a new chapter that embraces the joys of family and a more relaxed approach to her craft.
