Franklin, Aretha Louise

1942-2018 · Contribution: 1967-1998

Singer

Became known as the “Queen of Soul” and, in 1987, the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, winning 18 Grammy Awards and recording enduring anthems including “Respect,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” and “Think” that became touchstones of the civil rights and women's movements

Arts, Music & Entertainment Tech: collage image
Arts, Music & Entertainment Tech

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Quick facts

Born
1942
Active since
1967
Category
Arts, Music & Entertainment Tech
Best known for
"Queen of Soul""Respect"First woman in the Rock Hall

Impact on the world

Franklin's voice made "Respect" an anthem of the civil-rights and women's movements, and defined soul singing itself. Her artistry set a standard few have approached.

An alternative history

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Sources

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