Pips singer Guest dies at 74

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Vocalist William remained a member from band’s formation until their split 36 years later

William Guest of Gladys Knight & The Pips has died at the age of 74, it’s been confirmed.

The backing vocalist was one of two members, along with Merald ‘Bubba’ Knight, who remained part of the group from their 1953 formation until their split in 1989.

His daughter Monique said in a statement: “My heart is broken, but I know his legacy will live on.”

After the Pips split, Guest went on to found a production company with former bandmate Edward Patten, who died in 2005. He was later boss of Crew Records, and published an autobiography, Midnight Train From Georgia: A Pips Journey, in 2013.

Co-author Dhyana Ziegler, Guest’s sister-in-law, reported that he’d passed away of a heart condition. She added: “I’m so glad we finished the book, so his wonderful life and legacy will be celebrated throughout eternity.”

Martin Kielty
Freelance Online News Contributor

Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.