Aretha Franklin, also known as the “Queen of Soul”, was one of the most celebrated and influential singers of all time. Born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1942, Franklin began her music career as a child singing gospel in her father’s church. She signed with Columbia Records in the early 1960s and quickly became a sensation with her powerful voice and soulful delivery.
However, it wasn’t until she signed with Atlantic Records in 1967 that she truly became a superstar, producing a string of hits that established her as one of the most important voices in popular music. With her stirring performances and her ability to infuse every song with emotion and meaning, Franklin left an indelible mark on the music world that continues to inspire new generations of singers.
In this list of the 10 best Aretha Franklin songs of all time, we’ll explore some of her most iconic and beloved works, from her early classics to her later hits.
1. Respect
“Respect” is a 1967 hit song by American singer-songwriter Aretha Franklin. It is a cover of an Otis Redding song, but Franklin made it her own with her soulful, powerful vocals and the addition of the famous “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” spelling out in the chorus. The song became an anthem for the feminist and civil rights movements, as it touched on themes of equality and empowerment. With its catchy beat and memorable lyrics, “Respect” has become one of the most iconic and recognizable songs in popular music history.
2. (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
“(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” is a soulful classic by Aretha Franklin, written by Carole King, Gerry Goffin, and Jerry Wexler. The song, released in 1967, was a hit and has become an anthem for female empowerment. Aretha’s powerful vocals and emotion-filled delivery express the feelings of a woman who has found her true love and has been transformed by it. The song is filled with soulful energy and passion, with a timeless melody that captures the essence of the Motown sound. Franklin’s ability to connect with the song’s lyrics and convey the message of love and empowerment to her listeners has made this song one of her most memorable and beloved works.
3. Chain of Fools
“Chain of Fools” by Aretha Franklin is a classic soul song that was released in 1967. It features a groovy bassline, funky guitar riffs, and the iconic powerful vocals of Franklin. The lyrics describe a woman who is tired of being taken for granted and strung along by her lover. The catchy chorus, “Chain, chain, chain / Chain of fools,” is an analogy for the woman feeling trapped and controlled by her lover’s actions. Franklin’s dynamic performance and soulful delivery of the lyrics make this song an all-time classic and one of her most beloved hits.
4. Think
“Think” is a soulful, upbeat track by Aretha Franklin, released in 1968. It features a driving rhythm section, catchy horn section, and powerful vocals by Franklin. The song is an anthem of self-empowerment and encourages listeners to think for themselves and not be swayed by others. The memorable chorus, “Freedom! Freedom! Freedom! Oh, freedom!” became a rallying cry for the civil rights movement. “Think” has been covered by numerous artists and featured in several films and television shows, solidifying its status as one of Aretha Franklin’s most iconic and influential songs.
5. I Say a Little Prayer
“I Say a Little Prayer” is a soulful song by Aretha Franklin that was originally written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David. The song was released in 1968 and became an instant hit. It features a memorable chorus that encourages listeners to say a little prayer for their loved ones, and showcases Franklin’s powerful vocals as she belts out the lyrics. The song’s upbeat melody and catchy rhythm make it a classic that still resonates with audiences today.
6. Rock Steady
“Rock Steady” is a funky and soulful track from Aretha Franklin’s 1971 album “Young, Gifted and Black”. The song features a prominent bass line, tight horn section and Franklin’s powerful vocals, delivering lyrics about dancing and feeling the music. The infectious groove and energetic instrumentation make “Rock Steady” an irresistible track that has become a staple in Franklin’s discography and a beloved classic in the soul and R&B genres.
7. Dr. Feelgood (Love Is a Serious Business)
“Dr. Feelgood (Love Is a Serious Business)” is a powerful and sultry track from the legendary Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Released in 1967, it was one of the standout tracks on her iconic album “I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You.” The song showcases Franklin’s dynamic vocals, with soulful and emotional delivery that perfectly captures the intensity and passion of the lyrics. The rhythm section provides a funky, infectious groove that keeps the track moving along, while the horn section adds a touch of jazz-inspired elegance. The song’s message of the importance of love and the necessity of being with someone who makes you feel good is timeless and has resonated with listeners for decades.
8. Baby I Love You
“Baby I Love You” is a soulful and upbeat love song by Aretha Franklin that was released in 1967. The song features a lively rhythm section, a catchy horn arrangement, and Aretha’s powerful vocals that soar over the music. The lyrics express the singer’s deep feelings of love and devotion to her significant other and the joy that this love brings her. The song was a commercial success, reaching the top ten of the Billboard Hot 100 chart and becoming one of Aretha’s signature hits. Its infectious melody and catchy chorus have made it a classic of the soul and R&B genres.
9. Spanish Harlem
“Spanish Harlem” is a soulful ballad released by Aretha Franklin in 1971. It was written by Jerry Leiber and Phil Spector and originally recorded by Ben E. King in 1960. Franklin’s version became a hit, reaching number two on the Billboard R&B chart and number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song’s lyrics are a tribute to the romantic atmosphere and cultural richness of the New York City neighborhood known as Spanish Harlem. The lush orchestration and Franklin’s emotive vocals make for a romantic and nostalgic track that has endured as a classic in the R&B canon.
10. Freeway of Love
“Freeway of Love” is a lively and energetic song by the legendary Aretha Franklin. Released in 1985, it combines elements of pop, soul, and R&B to create an upbeat and infectious track that showcases Franklin’s powerhouse vocals. The song features a driving bassline, a catchy chorus, and plenty of brass instrumentation that adds to its overall groove. Lyrically, “Freeway of Love” is about the freedom of driving down the highway with someone you love, and the joy that comes with that experience.
Simon Robinson 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.
