By Molife Kumona
CIRCA 1965: Soul singer Aretha Franklin poses for a portrait in circa 1965. (Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty Images)
To say Aretha Franklin-inspired a generation is an understatement. She inspired generations and culture for decades. Her music has played the soundtrack to many of our lives journey. Whether black or white Franklin is a major player in culture throughout the world. She has helped us fall in love, deal with heartbreaks, find pride in who were are, showed us what excellence is and made it look so damn cool.
The Queen of Soul is currently receiving some hospice care in her home in Detroit, USA. Franklin has been battling cancer for the past couple of years.
Franklin’s career spans 5 decades and she inspired a generation of artists including Chaka Khan, Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston, Adele, Zonke and countless others.
We at GQ HQ are wishing the Queen of Soul all the best. Here are 10 legendary jams from this musical genius that we are listening to as we lift her up in our thoughts.
Aint No Way
Respect
Rock Steady
Say A little prayer
A Rose is still a rose
Natural Woman
Don’t Play that song
Wonderful
I knew you were waiting
Oh Me Oh My
undefined
