Chaka Khan reveals simple advice that transformed her stage anxiety and career

Soul legend Chaka Khan has opened up about the simple piece of advice that reshaped her decades-long career, describing her journey in music as a “calling” rather than a choice.

The 73-year-old icon, who first rose to fame in her early 20s as the frontwoman of Rufus before launching a successful solo career with hits like Ain’t Nobody and I Feel for You, reflected on her path during an appearance on the BBC World Service’s The Interview podcast.

Khan said she has always believed her success was destined. “This is a calling. It’s bigger than anything in your life as an individual,” she explained.

“If you found the thing that you were put on this planet to do… it’s such a gift to find it.”

Despite her powerful stage presence, Khan admitted she has long struggled with nerves when performing live.

“I’ve always been terrified, I still am,” she said. “I was petrified for a long time but I found a way to not appear that way.”

She revealed that early in her career she often avoided speaking to audiences, saying the pressure felt overwhelming even as her confidence grew on stage.

A turning point came when guitarist Carlos Santana offered her a piece of advice that changed her approach to performing.

He encouraged her to focus on one person in the crowd and, as she recalled, “if you touch them, you touch everyone.”

Khan described the guidance as “freeing,” saying it helped her connect more deeply with audiences and ease her stage anxiety.

Now still performing for fans around the world, the Grammy-winning singer said she remains grateful for her longevity in the industry.

“How many people get to make a living doing something that brings such crazy mad love and enjoyment to you?” she said. “I’m so lucky and blessed.”

Khan’s reflections come ahead of her upcoming stage production, Chaka Khan: I’m Every Woman – The Musical, which is set to open in London this July.