Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul passed away early last Thursday morning leaving many people sad and creating playlist of her most legendary songs. She leaves behind a legacy that includes six decades of music, 18 grammy’s, and 17 top-10 hits to name a few of her achievements. She was the epitome of a strong black woman – teen mom, singer, Civil Rights Activist, and fashionista. Aretha was one of the most influential women in music.
Aretha lived a history-making life and died at the tender age of 76. Her voice and songs are iconic and powerful. I remember growing up watching It’s Showtime at the Apollo and seeing people either SANG her song to glory or screw up and the audience letting them know they didn’t do the Queen of Soul’s song justice. My friends and family can tell you that I have an old soul and love classic R&B tunes. I love singers that can actually SING! I love singers that can sing the hell out of a song live and that’s what Aretha did with all of her songs! My favorite songs include: “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman”, “Respect”, “Something He Can Feel”, “I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You)”, and “Dr. Feelgood (Love Is a Serious Business”.
Aretha was also a fashion icon and the Queen of Shade – She once pulled a Mariah Carey diva move and claimed to not know fellow singer, Patti Labelle. Check out my favorite looks below:
1965 – Embellished Long-sleeve Gown
1969- Jewel Embellished Dress
1969 – Red Dress with Feathered Sleeves
1972 – Two-piece white outfit with Fuzzy Pink Jacket
1974 – Orange Chiffon Gown
1975 – Printed Dress and White Boa
1977 – Brown Sequin Gown
1983 – Black Sequin Dress and Feather Head Piece
1990 – Emerald Satin Dress, Beaded Belt, and Gold Earrings
1992 – Ballerina-inspired Dress
1993 – Fur Coat and Red Dress
2017 – Embellished Gown