Imagine this: You’re performing on stage, living your dream, and suddenly, everything changes. That’s exactly what happened to Gloria Gaynor in 1978 when she took a fall that left her paralyzed from the waist down. “I woke up the next morning unable to move and spent four months in the hospital,” Gloria shares exclusively with Closer Weekly, featured in the magazine’s latest issue, available now on newsstands. But this wasn’t the end for Gloria; it was just the beginning of an incredible journey.
After undergoing surgery to repair a ruptured disc and fuse two vertebrae in her lower spine, Gloria made a miraculous recovery. And guess what? Just a few months later, she recorded her iconic hit, “I Will Survive!” This anthem not only earned her a Grammy but also solidified her place as the Queen of Disco. Life hasn’t always been easy for Gloria. She’s faced challenges, including the tragic murder of her stepsister Irma Proctor in 1995, the breakup of her marriage to longtime manager Linwood Simon, and more spinal surgeries. Yet, through it all, she’s remained resilient. “For 40 years, I’ve been telling everyone I will survive—now it’s time to explain how!” Gloria says. At 75, she’s not slowing down; instead, she’s spreading her message of hope with a new gospel album, Testimony, inspired by the faith that’s carried her through life’s ups and downs. And believe it or not, she’s just getting started!
Why Gloria Gaynor Chose Now to Release a Gospel Album
A Dream Long Deferred
Gloria has wanted to create a gospel album for years, but past management teams held her back, believing it wouldn’t be as financially successful as her other works. “They kept telling me it wasn’t the right time,” she explains. But Gloria never lost sight of her dream. Now, with Testimony, she’s finally sharing her spiritual side with the world.
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How Gloria Feels About Finally Releasing Her Gospel Album
Gloria beams with excitement about her new album. “It’s such a rewarding experience. My dreams have come true, and I couldn’t be happier,” she says. This album isn’t just music—it’s a testament to her faith and perseverance.
The Moment Gloria Knew She Was Destined to Sing
A Childhood Revelation
Gloria’s passion for singing began when she was a young girl. One day, she was belting out Frankie Lymon’s “Why Do Fools Fall in Love?” in her hallway when a neighbor overheard her. “Oh my, I thought that was the radio!” the neighbor exclaimed. That moment changed everything for Gloria. She realized she had a gift and was determined to share it with the world.
The Songs That Mean the Most to Gloria Gaynor
From Disco Hits to Gospel Anthems
When asked about her most meaningful songs, Gloria points to “Never Can Say Goodbye.” Not only was it her first major hit, but it also broke barriers by being the first disco record played on AM radio. “It opened doors for so many other artists,” she reflects. And now, with Testimony, she’s creating new memories with songs that encapsulate her life’s journey.
The Story Behind “I Will Survive”
“I Will Survive” wasn’t always meant to be the A-side. The record company president initially wanted Gloria to record “Substitute,” a song he had success with in England. But producers Dino Fekaris and Freddie Perren had other plans. They made a deal: if the company let them write a B-side, they’d record it. “They didn’t have the lyrics with them, so they wrote it on a bag!” Gloria recalls with a laugh.
Gloria’s Reaction to Hearing “I Will Survive”
Knowing It Was Something Special
When Gloria first heard “I Will Survive,” she knew it was destined for greatness. “I told them, ‘This song is not staying on the B-side,’” she says. And she was right. Less than a year later, it became an international sensation, resonating with people everywhere. “Everyone can relate to those words, no matter what they’re going through,” Gloria explains.
