Tribute To The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin
Today, the music industry lost a powerhouse! Aretha Louise Franklin, the “Queen of Soul” has died at her home in Detroit, surrounded by family. The singer’s illness came to light not long ago, as she was reportedly battling pancreatic cancer.
Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Aretha was raised by her father, who was a minister and her mother, who was a vocalist and an accomplished pianist, along with her three siblings. The family then relocated to Detroit, Michigan where Franklin’s mother decided to leave the family, due to the father’s promiscuity. She died a few days before Aretha’s 10th birthday. As a result of her mother’s passing, both Franklin’s grandmother and gospel singer, Mahalia Jackson, helped to raise her and her siblings.
Aretha learned to play piano by ear, but started her musical career through “gospel caravan” tours at various churches, managed by her father. Aretha aspired to become like singer-songwriter, Sam Cooke, in earlier years, but soon took on a voice of her own, to later become “one of the giants in soul music” according to author, Richie Unterberger.
Aretha Franklin has had many accomplishments throughout her career. She has achieved 18 recording Grammys, both the Grammys Legend Award and Lifetime Achievement Award. She was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock&Roll Hall of Fame. She received the National Medal of Arts and was given the President Medal of Freedom, just to name a few. She has made a lasting impact on the music industry globally. Her voice will be the standard for many in years to come. She is described as loyal and caring.
In her final days, Franklin received tributes and visits from celebrities like Beyoncé, Jay Z, Stevie Wonder, Jesse Jackson, Khalid and many more. Sources say that a star-studded concert is going to be held in November, in honor of the legendary, Aretha Franklin.
This legend is gone but will never be forgotten as she leaves an incredible musical catalogue. Rest In Heaven sweet Aretha 🙏🙏 #Respect
