10 Greatest Aretha Franklin Songs
Aretha Franklin's early career marked the beginning of a legendary journey that profoundly impacted soul music. Rising to fame in the 1960s, she signed with Atlantic Records and released iconic hits like "Respect" and "Think." Aretha's powerful voice, soulful delivery, and gospel roots revolutionized the music scene, earning her the title "Queen of Soul." Her unmatched vocal talent, emotional depth, and unwavering spirit continue to inspire generations of artists and fans, solidifying her legacy as a true soul music icon.
Aretha Franklin had a long-standing and significant relationship with SOUL. SOUL was present during her signing to Atlantic in 1966 and was early to acknowledge her with awards and accolades. As the Queen of Soul, Aretha was not only a music icon but also a pivotal figure in the world of soul music and beyond. Throughout her career, she graced the pages of SOUL with her powerful presence and remarkable achievements. She appeared on the cover of SOUL Newspaper twelve times and once on the cover of SOUL Illustrated. Aretha shared a personal friendship with SOUL co-publisher Regina Jones and sat for several in-depth interviews, invited SOUL to cover her marriage to Glenn Thurman, and maintained contact with Jones until shortly before she died in 2018.
Aretha's music resonated deeply with our readers, and her groundbreaking contributions to the music industry were closely followed and celebrated by our publication. Whenever she released a new album, embarked on a tour, or received an award, SOUL was there to cover the story and share it with our audience.
Aretha Franklin's relationship with SOUL was one of mutual admiration and respect. She trusted us to share her story with authenticity and integrity, and we were honored to witness her legacy unfold throughout the years. Aretha's presence in the pages of SOUL will forever hold a special place in the hearts of our readers, as we continue to celebrate her enduring influence on soul music and beyond.
Aretha Franklin photo by Regina Jones ©2024
Aretha Franklin's 10 Greatest Songs
"Respect" (1967) - This iconic anthem became a symbol of feminism and empowerment, showcasing Aretha's powerhouse vocals and message of self-respect.
"Natural Woman" (1967) - A heartfelt ballad that perfectly captures Aretha's soulful essence and emotional depth.
"I Say a Little Prayer" (1968) - A timeless classic that showcases Aretha's versatility and ability to deliver a soulful, heartfelt performance.
"Think" (1968) - Known for its energetic beat and powerful vocals, this song is a true showcase of Aretha's talent and charisma.
"Chain of Fools" (1967) - A soulful and captivating track that highlights Aretha's ability to infuse raw emotion into her performances.
"(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" (1967) - Aretha's soul-stirring rendition of this Carole King classic remains one of her most beloved songs.
"Ain't No Way" (1968) - This emotional ballad showcases Aretha's unmatched vocal range and ability to convey deep emotion through her music.
"Bridge Over Troubled Water" (1971) - Aretha's cover of this Simon & Garfunkel hit is a stunning showcase of her vocal prowess and heartfelt delivery.
"Do Right Woman, Do Right Man" (1967) - A powerful song that showcases Aretha's ability to blend gospel and soul influences into a soul-stirring performance.
"Spanish Harlem" (1971) - Aretha's rendition of this classic song perfectly captures the spirit of the original while adding her own soulful twist.
These songs represent just a glimpse of Aretha’s breadth of work and its impact on music as we know it today. Which speaks to your SOUL the most?
