I’ve been on a hardcore Aretha Franklin kick all week long. I think it actually started on Sunday morning, when I caught the tail end of Ain’t No Way being piped through the speakers at my grocery store. I instantly forgot what kind of bread I needed and got caught up in the melody. Ain’t No Way is quite possibly my favorite Aretha song. No wait, it’s I Never Loved a Man. Or maybe it’s Dr. Feelgood. There’s so many songs to choose from!
I love older clips of Aretha Franklin because in her earlier days, she showcased her powerful voice to great advantage without getting into melisma overkill. I also love old Aretha Franklin clips, because her look has evolved so much. Back in the day, Aretha was working the TWA with style. And so did all her backup singers! This video of her singing Natural Woman really made me feel it. Had to share.
If you’re still yearning for more Aretha, you need to treat yourself to a copy of Aretha Live at Fillmore West. It’s hard to find a live album that is that perfect, that captures that kind of spirit. All you need to do is listen to the audio of Spirit in the Dark with Ray Charles to know that album’s a classic.
What’s your favorite Aretha Franklin song, bellas and fellas?
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