Released in 1969, Nitty Gritty was the sixth album by Gladys Knight & the Pips. Thanks to the influence of producer Norman Whitfield, it places emphasis on the raw funk and soul sounds of the band resulting in an unforgettable set. Three of the singles included became hits: "Didn't You Know (You'd Have to Cry Sometime)" (#63 Pop, #11 R&B), "Nitty Gritty" (#19 Pop, #2 R&B), and "Friendship Train" (#17 Pop, #2 R&B)