Aretha Franklin (1942-2018) was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist widely considered one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Dubbed the “Queen of Soul,” she achieved massive success during the 1960s and 1970s with hits such as “Respect,” “Chain of Fools,” and “Think.”
Franklin’s career spanned over six decades, during which she received numerous accolades, including 18 Grammy Awards, a Kennedy Center Honor, and induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She was also the first woman to be inducted into the UK Music Hall of Fame.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Franklin began singing in church at a young age and was heavily influenced by gospel music. She signed her first record deal at the age of 18 with Columbia Records, but it wasn’t until she switched to Atlantic Records in 1967 that she achieved widespread commercial success.
Franklin’s voice was marked by its power, range, and emotional depth, and her music often addressed social and political issues of the time. She was known for her ability to infuse soul and gospel into a wide range of genres, including pop, rock, and R&B.
Beyond her musical achievements, Franklin was also an icon of black culture and a trailblazer for women in the music industry. Her legacy continues to inspire new generations of musicians, and she remains a beloved figure in American popular culture.
1. “Baby I Love You” (Aretha Arrives, 1967)
“Baby I Love You” is a soulful love song that was recorded by the legendary American singer Aretha Franklin for her album “Aretha Arrives” in 1967. The song features a catchy melody and powerful vocals that showcase Franklin’s range and emotive delivery. The lyrics express a deep and passionate love for someone special, with Franklin declaring that she will always be there for her lover and will love them unconditionally. With its infectious rhythm and heartfelt lyrics, “Baby I Love You” has become one of Franklin’s most beloved and enduring songs, and a classic example of her iconic soul sound.
2. “I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You)” (I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, 1967)
“I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You)” is a classic soul song that was recorded by Aretha Franklin in 1967. The song is about a woman who is deeply in love with a man and can’t imagine her life without him. It features Franklin’s powerful vocals, backed by a bluesy and soulful arrangement. The song’s lyrics and Franklin’s delivery capture the raw emotion and intensity of falling deeply in love. It quickly became one of Franklin’s most popular songs and helped establish her as the “Queen of Soul.” Today, it remains a beloved classic of the soul genre and a testament to Franklin’s incredible talent as a vocalist.
3. “Call Me” (This Girl’s in Love With You, 1970)
“Call Me” is a soulful and romantic song performed by the legendary Aretha Franklin, released on her album “This Girl’s in Love With You” in 1970. The song, written by Tony Hatch and Petula Clark, features Franklin’s powerful and emotive vocals over a lush and melodic instrumental arrangement. The lyrics express a deep desire for connection and affection, with Franklin urging her lover to reach out to her whenever they need her. “Call Me” became a hit for Franklin, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard R&B chart and solidifying her status as one of the greatest singers of all time.
4. “Respect” (I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, 1967)
“Respect” is a classic soul anthem by the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, released in 1967 as part of her album “I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You.” The song quickly became a cultural sensation, cementing Franklin’s status as an icon of the civil rights and feminist movements. The song’s empowering lyrics demand respect from men towards women and promote gender equality. The upbeat rhythm and soulful vocals make “Respect” an irresistibly danceable tune, and its catchy chorus has made it an enduring classic, inspiring countless covers and adaptations over the years.
5. “(Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You’ve Been Gone” (Lady Soul, 1968)
“(Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You’ve Been Gone” is a soul song recorded by Aretha Franklin for her 1968 album, Lady Soul. The song features a catchy melody with Franklin’s powerful vocals taking center stage. It tells the story of a woman who has found love and happiness since her partner came into her life, and how she feels lost and incomplete without him. The song features a groovy and upbeat musical arrangement with a catchy chorus that makes it one of Franklin’s most memorable hits. It is a testament to Franklin’s ability to infuse soulful lyrics with catchy melodies and make them unforgettable.
6. “Chain of Fools” (Lady Soul, 1967)
“Chain of Fools” is a classic soul song by Aretha Franklin, released on her 1968 album “Lady Soul.” The song features a funky and irresistible groove with Franklin’s powerful and soulful vocals commanding attention. Written by Don Covay, the lyrics describe the singer’s frustration with a lover who keeps stringing her along, creating a “chain of fools.” The song became a huge commercial success for Franklin, topping the Billboard R&B chart and reaching the top 10 on the pop chart. “Chain of Fools” remains a timeless classic and a beloved staple of Franklin’s iconic catalog.
7. “Until You Come Back To Me (That’s What I’m Gonna Do)” (Let Me in Your Life, 1973)
“Until You Come Back To Me (That’s What I’m Gonna Do)” is a soulful ballad recorded by Aretha Franklin for her album “Let Me in Your Life” in 1973. The song, which was written by Stevie Wonder, Paul McCartney, and Linda McCartney, showcases Franklin’s soulful vocals and emotional depth. The lyrics express a yearning for a lost love and the willingness to wait for their return, with Franklin promising to be faithful and patient until they come back. The song’s gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a timeless classic, and Franklin’s rendition remains one of the most iconic and beloved versions of the song.
8. “Day Dreaming” (Young, Gifted and Black, 1972)
“Day Dreaming” is a soulful ballad recorded by Aretha Franklin for her 1972 album, Young, Gifted and Black. The song showcases Franklin’s powerful yet tender vocals, backed by a lush arrangement that includes strings, horns, and a gentle piano melody. The lyrics describe the singer’s daydreams about a lover and her desire to be with him, highlighting her vulnerability and romantic yearnings. The song’s smooth and sensual atmosphere perfectly captures the emotions of falling in love, making it a timeless classic. “Day Dreaming” is a testament to Franklin’s ability to convey complex emotions through her music and establish her as one of the greatest soul singers of all time.
9. “Rock Steady” (Young, Gifted and Black, 1971)
“Rock Steady” is an upbeat and funky song by Aretha Franklin, released on her 1971 album “Young, Gifted and Black.” The song features a driving rhythm section, horns, and Franklin’s powerful vocals delivering a catchy and infectious melody. Written by Franklin herself, the lyrics describe a passionate and unstoppable love that will “rock steady” through any obstacles. “Rock Steady” became a hit for Franklin, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard R&B chart and solidifying her reputation as a versatile and innovative artist who could infuse soul, funk, and rock into her music. The song remains a beloved classic of Franklin’s catalog.
10. “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man” (I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, 1967)
“Do Right Woman, Do Right Man” is a soulful and emotive song by Aretha Franklin, released on her 1967 album “I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You.” The song features a slow and bluesy tempo with Franklin’s powerful and expressive vocals delivering poignant lyrics about the importance of doing right by one’s partner. Written by Dan Penn and Chips Moman, the song has become an anthem for respect and equality in relationships. “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man” was a critical and commercial success for Franklin and remains a classic of her early career and the soul genre as a whole.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
