The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, is very much interested in taking a seat on the next season of American Idol. While some seem to think she may not be recognizable, claiming kids don’t know who she is, Franklin says “my audience and fans are multi-generational.”
Taking issue with recent comments made by television personalities, including Kathie Lee and Hoda (Today, NBC), claiming “If they are looking for a younger demographic, there are a lot of kids out there (who) actually don’t know who Aretha Franklin is. It’s sad, but they don’t,” Franklin says she goes where she wants on her “custom bus” and people show up.
“While I enjoy Kathie Lee and Hoda daily, her assessment is totally wrong! I’ve been to California, from Detroit, four times this year and Florida. I go wherever I choose to go comfortably on my custom bus,” Franklin told CNN. “My audience and fans span the age of eight to 90! And are multi-ethnic, and I am very well known to young adults, tweens and teens. Their parents play my music and I take care of my business whenever I sign on the dotted line.”
Franklin went on to say Kathie Lee should have done her “research” before speaking.
“I’m surprised Kathie Lee did not research my worldwide celebrity audience! She’s usually right on top of things with a great sense of humor, but she’s totally wrong this time,” says Franklin. “She should research me before she speaks about me. I’m sure she thought she was right; still enjoy Hoda and Kathie Lee!”
As previously reported, the legendary singer hopes “American Idol” will consider her for the show. After all, she is the Queen of Soul.
