Legendary disco singer Gloria Gaynor, best known for her timeless anthem “I Will Survive,” reflected on her experience meeting President Donald Trump during the 2025 Kennedy Center Honors, marking her “third or fourth time” meeting the former president.

Honored at the Kennedy Center

Gaynor, 82, was the only female artist honored in 2025, sharing the stage with stars including actor-director Sylvester Stallone, Broadway legend Michael Crawford, rock band KISS, and country icon George Strait. The honorees participated in weekend events hosted by President Trump, culminating in a medal presentation at the White House.

“I was in shock,” Gaynor told PEOPLE of hearing she had been selected. “Are you serious with me? It’s so wonderful to be counted among all these other great artists and their accomplishments. I’m blessed.”

Meeting Trump

On the red carpet, Gaynor described meeting Trump as “wonderful,” noting, “I’d met him before, and he’s always very personable and very pleasant.” She added that Trump didn’t reveal the specifics behind her selection, only mentioning that he felt her iconic song “had done so much for so many people.”

The Legacy of “I Will Survive”

Over her decades-long career, Gaynor has released 20 studio albums and 53 singles, with “I Will Survive” remaining her most iconic hit. She recalled how the song personally helped her during a period when she was recovering from spinal surgery.

“When I first read the lyrics, it was an anthem to me because I was in a back brace. It encouraged me, and I knew it would do that for anyone struggling — physically, mentally, or emotionally,” she said.

Gaynor on Misconceptions

Earlier this year, Gaynor addressed a surprising misconception about herself in a Metro interview. While some assume she identifies strongly as a feminist, she clarified, “Not really. I love men. I grew up with five brothers, and I love men who know who they are and are strong enough to recognize a woman’s strengths.”

Trump Praises Gaynor

President Trump also spoke highly of the disco icon during the announcement of the honorees, calling “I Will Survive” “unbelievable” and praising her performance as unmatched. He added, “Nobody can sing it like her. And that’s an honor.”