RESPECT

Aretha Franklin: “The Queen of Soul”

Aretha Franklin (1942–2018) was a groundbreaking American singer, songwriter, and pianist,
widely regarded as the "Queen of Soul." Born in Memphis, Tennessee, and raised in Detroit,
she was immersed in gospel music at her father Rev. C.L. Franklin’s church. By age 14, she
was recording gospel, showcasing not only her remarkable voice but also her exceptional piano
skills—largely self-taught— which became a signature element of her sound.
In 1960, she transitioned to secular music, signing with Columbia Records, but it was her move
to Atlantic Records in 1967 that launched her to superstardom. With powerful hits like Respect,
(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Think, and Chain of Fools, she became a symbol
of empowerment and musical excellence. She won 18 Grammy Awards and became the first
woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
Aretha’s career featured legendary collaborations with artists such as Ray Charles, George
Michael (I Knew You Were Waiting for Me), Eurythmics (Sisters Are Doin’ It for Themselves),
and Elton John. She also performed with icons like Frank Sinatra, Smokey Robinson, and
Luciano Pavarotti.
Beyond music, she was a force in the civil rights movement, performing at Dr. Martin Luther
King Jr. 's funeral and later at Barack Obama’s inauguration. Her six-decade career saw over 75
million records sold worldwide. Even in her later years, she continued to inspire, earning the
Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.
Aretha Franklin’s voice, piano mastery, and legacy remain timeless, securing her place as one
of the greatest artists in history.
About the Drawing: “Aretha” is encased in a grand piano; which she excelled on. The outer
edge, and the edge of the lid of the piano are her top songs. The keys are significant albums.
Her mouth says: “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman”, the great Carol King tune.You’ll
also see “Baby,Baby, Whatcha” Gonna Do To Me”, and You Make Me Feel So Good Inside”.
Her eyes say: “The Look in Your Eyes Just Turns Me On”, and, “Your Eyes Are So Inviting,I feel
Like They’re Home.” Her face and hair are full of musical and personal history, happenings, key
people, awards and highlights. On the microphone it says RESPECT . I am certain she received
that.