Kelly Rowland is putting on her actress hat to portray R&B legend Gladys Knight.

The former Destiny's Child member plays Knight in the new BET drama series American Soul which follows the formation and success of Soul Train, created by Chicago DJ Don Cornelius in the 1970s to bring black performers into the homes of millions.

In an exclusive clip from Vulture, Cornelius is seen pitching his show to the Empress of Soul (Rowland) who would rather be anywhere else.

His sales pitch eventually worked as Knight became one of the first guests on the show which would eventually run for 35 years.

American Soul premieres February 5 on BET.