Aretha Franklin

Aretha Louise Franklin was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who is widely regarded as one of the greatest singers of all time. Referred to as the "Queen of Soul", she has won 18 Grammy Awards and is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, having sold over 75 million records worldwide.

Franklin began her career as a child singing gospel at New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan, where her father, C. L. Franklin, was minister. At the age of 18, she embarked on a secular career, recording for Columbia Records but achieving only modest success. Franklin's career did not flourish until she signed with Atlantic Records in 1966, where she achieved commercial acclaim and success with songs such as "Respect", "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman", "Spanish Harlem", and "Think".

Her powerful, soulful voice earned her the nickname "The Queen of Soul" and she became the first female performer to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. Franklin's music influenced generations of artists and she became a symbol of empowerment, particularly for African American women.

Throughout her career, Franklin continued to blend gospel, soul, and R&B, creating a sound that was uniquely her own. She performed at major events including presidential inaugurations and remained active in music until her death in 2018.