Patti LaBelle never imagined she’d still be commanding stages at 81, but here she is—singing, sashaying, and shining brighter than ever. What started as a teenage dream has blossomed into a six-decade legacy, and LaBelle is embracing every encore with gratitude.

“I think of my sisters who all passed before they turned 50,” LaBelle shared, “so I thought I would too… but when I hit 70, I said, ‘I’m still doing it.’” And doing it she is—alongside fellow legends Chaka Khan, Gladys Knight, and Stephanie Mills in the unprecedented tour, “The Queens: 4 Legends. 1 Stage.”

The second leg of this majestic musical affair kicks off in Greensboro, North Carolina, this Friday and wraps October 5 in Cleveland. It’s a concert for the ages—literally. The rotating stage showcases each legend in a 45-minute set filled with hits, harmonies, and heart, thrilling crowds that span generations.

Whether it’s Chaka Khan belting “I’m Every Woman,” Knight chugging along the “Midnight Train to Georgia,” or Mills bringing Broadway soul with “Home,” the tour is a testament to timeless talent. And let’s not forget LaBelle’s soaring renditions of “You Are My Friend” and “Lady Marmalade.”

Despite their accolades—including Rock & Roll Hall of Fame nods and Grammys galore—these icons remain grounded, driven, and deeply connected to their roots. “There’s no pretending,” said LaBelle. “We’re phenomenally into what we do.”

Khan, now 72, echoes that sentiment with her signature candor. “Staying alive,” she says when asked what she’s proudest of, reflecting on her past battles and present blessings. She’s currently prepping a West End musical based on her life and recording new music, including unreleased tracks with Prince.

Stephanie Mills, lovingly dubbed “the baby” of the group at 68, has been in the spotlight since age 11 and isn’t slowing down. She hopes to return to Broadway soon but, for now, is reveling in the rhythm of the road.

Meanwhile, LaBelle is also stirring things up outside the studio—literally—with a new syrup set to join her successful food line.

As these four soul queens share the stage, they’re also sharing a message: age isn’t a limitation—it’s a celebration. “At this age, don’t be afraid to do anything,” said LaBelle. “You can’t stop living.”