Aretha Franklin was rightly named the “Queen of Soul,” however few know why she deserves the title.
The Queen of Soul, who passed away aged 76 was celebrated in a star-studded funeral on the 31st of August 2018. A great name in the music industry, Arethas’s accomplishments made her stand out among the crowds. Living life in the spotlight as part of the music industry from age 12, she also gained a reputation as a feminist and champion in the fight for civil rights. Here are some of her greatest accomplishments:
1. Aretha Franklin won 18 Grammy Awards
Yes. She commenced her music career at 12, as a gospel singer and in 1968, her single “Respect” won her the first Grammy. She would go on producing multiple solo albums that would then win her another 7 Grammys and in 2008, the Music Cares Person of the Year Award was her last 18th Grammy Award.
2. She was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
Aretha Franklin became the first woman to be voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. The foundation which started in 1983 to recognize and ultimately document the world’s musical greats has had a huge influence on the society in general.
3.Her stunning performance for Obama’s 2009 Presidential Inauguration
It takes perfection and a huge following for musicians to make official appearances at presidential events. Aretha did it thrice, but perhaps the most memorable moment was the 2009 inauguration ceremony for the first black president in the US. Her songs for that eventful occasion were, “My Country” and “Tis of Thee”
4. Held the Billboard’s Hot 100 hits for 40 years
Her first hit “Respect” topped the Hot 100 for several years and was followed by other singles. Being the first woman with 73 songs topping the Billboard’s Hot 100 songs, Aretha was a true music powerhouse.
5. Aretha Franklin had a “Voice of Reason”
She’s known for championing for the rights of black Americans together with Martin Luther King, and that saw them fight for the civil rights of many minorities – mostly blacks.
Her vocal superiority enabled her swiftly and easily switch from gospel, soul, jazz, pop, and rock. These popular music genres pushed her career to the highest possible level.
