Have you ever wondered what it’s like to be the child of a music legend? James Newman III knew exactly what that felt like. He was the son of Gladys Knight, the world-famous soul singer known for timeless hits like Midnight Train to Georgia. But James wasn’t just Gladys Knight’s son — he was also her manager, her spiritual guide, and her closest supporter.
This is not the story of a famous singer’s child chasing fame. It’s the story of a man who helped his mother shine while building a quiet, beautiful life of his own. In this article, we’ll explore the real story of James Newman III — his life, his faith, his career, and what really happened to him.
James Newman III Quick Bio
| Full Name | James “Jimmy” Gaston Newman III |
| Known For | Gladys Knight’s son and manager |
| Birth Date | August 13, 1962 |
| Death Date | July 10, 1999 |
| Age at Death | 36 years old |
| Mother | Gladys Knight |
| Father | James “Jimmy” Newman II |
| Sister | Kenya Maria Newman |
| Half-Brother | Shanga Ali Hankerson |
| Wife | Michelene (Micheline) Newman |
| Children | Rishawn, Stefan, Sterling, Gabrielle, Nastasia |
| Education | Bishop Gorman High School; University of San Diego |
| Career | Manager, VP at Blackground/Virgin Records |
| Faith | LDS Church member; baptized his mother |
| Cause of Death | Heart failure (possibly substance-related) |
| Place of Death | Las Vegas, Nevada |
Who Was James Newman III, Gladys Knight’s Son?
James Newman III was Gladys Knight’s oldest child, born on August 13, 1962. He was named after his father, James “Jimmy” Newman II. From the very beginning, his life was closely tied to music, love, and family.
But James didn’t chase the spotlight like many celebrity children. Instead, he stayed in the background — supporting his mother, managing her career, and helping her through some of the toughest times in her life. He wasn’t just her son. He was her right hand, her rock, and her light in the darkest moments.
James Newman III’s Birth and Early Childhood
James was born when his mother was only 18 years old. Gladys Knight had married his father at 16, after becoming pregnant. Sadly, their first child ended in a miscarriage. James was born a year later and brought joy to their young family.
He grew up in a world filled with music. Gladys was already performing with Gladys Knight & the Pips, and James often saw life on the road. But his childhood wasn’t easy. His father, a jazz musician, battled drug addiction and eventually left the family when James was still a little boy.
Despite the pain, James remained close to his mother. He saw her work hard, tour, and sing her heart out — all while raising him and his sister. That made him strong and deeply loyal to her.
James Newman III’s Family and Siblings
James had a younger sister, Kenya Maria Newman, born in 1963. The two shared a strong bond growing up. Later, James also had a half-brother named Shanga Ali Hankerson, from Gladys Knight’s second marriage to Barry Hankerson.
Family meant everything to James. He stayed close to them, even after he became an adult. He later lived near his mother in Las Vegas so he could be there for her during her battles — including a tough time when she struggled with gambling addiction. James never left her side.
Growing Up as Gladys Knight’s Son
Being Gladys Knight’s son meant James lived between two worlds — one full of fame and cameras, and another full of real-life struggles. While his mother was winning Grammy Awards and performing on world stages, James saw the pressure she was under behind the scenes.
But instead of running from that life, James leaned into it. He saw how hard his mother worked, and he wanted to help. As a teenager and young adult, he didn’t ask for attention — he became the person who made sure everything worked behind the scenes.
Later, he proudly called his mother both “Mom” and “Boss.” He didn’t just love her — he helped guide her career.
James Newman III’s Education and Young Dreams
James was smart and hardworking. He went to Bishop Gorman High School in Las Vegas, where he played football and did well in school. After high school, he attended the University of San Diego and graduated in 1984.
Even with a college degree, James didn’t go far from home. Instead of working for someone else, he started his own business — Newman Management Inc. — and began managing his mother’s career full-time.
He had a dream, not just for himself but for his whole family. He wanted to see his mother happy, healthy, and successful. And he made it happen, one step at a time.
James Newman III as Gladys Knight’s Manager
Being a manager for a music legend isn’t easy. But James made it look natural. He knew his mother’s music, her voice, and her soul. That’s what made him such a great guide for her career.
In the late 1980s and 1990s, James Newman III worked closely with Gladys Knight to plan concerts, organize recordings, and handle the business side of music. He was the reason things ran smoothly, and he protected her from stress.
But he didn’t stop there. In 1999, James helped his mother start her own record label, called Many Roads. He was also a big part of her gospel album, Many Different Roads, which became a turning point in her music and faith journey.
James Newman III’s Music Business Career
Just months before his death, James was named Vice President of West Coast Operations at Blackground/Virgin Records — a huge achievement. It showed that his talents were being recognized beyond just his mother’s career.
He had built a strong reputation in the music world. People saw him not just as Gladys Knight’s son, but as a serious music executive with a bright future. He had big plans. He was ready to take on more, to help more artists, and to leave a legacy of his own.
But sadly, that journey was cut short.
James Newman III’s Strong Faith and Church Life
One of the most powerful parts of James Newman III’s story is his faith. He didn’t just believe in God — he lived it every day. His journey into faith started with his wife, Michelene Newman, who joined the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints first.
Soon after, James followed her. Then his sister Kenya joined. They all felt peace in this new path, and it brought them even closer as a family. James became very involved in the church and was even part of the priesthood.
In 1997, something amazing happened. James Newman III baptized his mother, Gladys Knight. That moment was full of love and meaning. He had brought his mother back to faith, and it became a turning point in her life too.
James Newman III’s Wife and Children
James wasn’t just a son and a manager. He was also a husband and a father. He married Michelene (also spelled Micheline) Newman, and together they built a strong, loving home.
They had five children — three sons and two daughters. Their sons were named Rishawn, Stefan, and Sterling, and their daughters were Gabrielle and Nastasia. James loved being a dad and worked hard to give his children a peaceful and happy life.
The family lived near Gladys Knight in Las Vegas, which made it easier for James to help her through her personal struggles, including her addiction to gambling. He supported her, not just as a son, but as someone who truly cared from the heart.
What Happened to James Newman III?
On July 10, 1999, tragedy struck. James Newman III died suddenly in his sleep. He was only 36 years old. His passing came just months after being promoted to Vice President at Blackground/Virgin Records.
The official cause of death was heart failure. Some reports mentioned that alcohol or past substance use may have played a part, but nothing was fully confirmed. What mattered most was that his death was sudden, painful, and shocking to everyone who loved him.
He had so many dreams still left to live. He had a growing career, a beautiful family, and a heart full of faith. His death left a big space in the lives of everyone who knew him — especially his mother.
How Gladys Knight Coped After Her Son’s Death
For Gladys Knight, losing her son was the hardest thing she ever faced. She called James the “bedrock of the family.” He had been her helper, her guide, and her biggest supporter. Losing him broke her heart.
But Gladys found strength in the same faith James had shared with her. She leaned into the LDS Church, where she found comfort, community, and healing. She also continued to sing, but her music now carried deeper meaning — full of faith, memory, and love.
Even after his death, James Newman III stayed close to her heart. She spoke about him with pride and deep emotion. His life had changed hers forever.
James Newman III’s Legacy Today
Even though James Newman III, Gladys Knight’s son, died young, his legacy still lives on. He wasn’t a singer or a celebrity, but he was a quiet leader. He helped guide his mother’s career, he led his family in faith, and he raised five beautiful children.
Because of James, Gladys Knight found a new direction in her music and a deeper purpose in her life. Because of James, his children grew up knowing love, faith, and strength. And because of James, readers today are learning the story of a man who truly made a difference.
His life may not be widely known, but it is deeply meaningful.
Final Thoughts
James Newman III was not just Gladys Knight’s son. He was her manager, her friend, her spiritual guide, and her biggest cheerleader. He lived with purpose and kindness. He cared for his family, built a strong career, and followed his faith.
He passed away far too soon. But the love he gave, the life he lived, and the people he touched — all prove that a quiet life can still leave a loud and lasting impact.
When we look at Gladys Knight’s strength, we must also remember the son who stood beside her. James Newman III didn’t need to be in the spotlight to shine.
His story is one of love, family, faith, and heart — and it deserves to be remembered.
(FAQs)
When did James Newman III die?
James Newman III died on July 10, 1999. He was only 36 years old. He passed away suddenly in his sleep, and it shocked his whole family.
What caused James Newman III’s death?
Doctors said it was heart failure. Some people think alcohol or other things may have played a part, but no one knows for sure. His death was very sad and unexpected.
Did James Newman III make music?
He didn’t sing or make his own songs. But he helped his mom with her gospel album in 1999. He worked behind the scenes to support her music.
How many kids did James Newman III have?
James had 5 kids — 3 sons and 2 daughters. Their names are Rishawn, Stefan, Sterling, Gabrielle, and Nastasia. Many people don’t know he had such a big family.
Is James Newman III the doctor in Jefferson City?
No, that’s a different person. Gladys Knight’s son lived in Las Vegas and died in 1999. He is listed on Find a Grave, but he was not a doctor.
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