Wednesday, August 22, 2018

Queen Diva of Soul Aretha Franklin (March 25, 1942 - August 16, 2018)


This past week has been a rough one for the music world. We have lost one of the greatest vocalists of our time. Aretha Louise Franklin born in Memphis, Tennessee was one of the most recognized soul singers of this modern era. Growing up singing in the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan where her father C.L. Franklin ministered, Aretha wowed the congregation with her beautiful voice.

Aretha started singing gospel music at age 12, traveling with her father as he went on his ministry to various churches. Her father helped her to sign here first record deal in 1956 with J.V.B Records.
She made the switch from gospel to secular music in 1960 at age 18 signing with Columbia Records. Her first secular album was released in 1961. From 1961 to 1966, Aretha recorded with Columbia then decided to sign to Atlantic Records. She recorded with Atlantic from 1967 to 1979 where she recorded hits such as "I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)" , "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" and the number 1 R&B chart topper "Something He Can Feel". Aretha left Atlantic for Clive Davis' Arista Records in 1980 where she recorded a duet with one of my favorite guitarist George Benson "Love All the Hurt Away". She was with Arista until 2007.

With for decades of music, there is no denying that this woman was and is the Queen Diva of Soul. This angel has impacted the world with her sultry voice. We are all blessed with the archives of music she has left for us. I have been listening to her music a lot lately. I am so thankful for this amazing woman. Peace and love to you all.

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