Len “Muddy” Mardeusz
Roving Reporter
Her Voice Lives On. The words to sum up the life and legacy of Aretha Franklin, called the Queen of Soul, and truly justified, but not wholly descriptive of her lifetime. Yes, musically she was the Queen, after all she was the first female singer to place 100 hits on the R&B charts.
Smokey Robinson said Aretha was his closest friend, “I will miss her. But I know she is at peace”.
The number of People world wide who have offered their condolences to her family is outstandingly numerous. The President, past President’s, Hollywood celebrities, Prime Ministers and thousands of everyday Americans. In truth Aretha Franklin was both a 20th and 21st century musical and cultural icon. Aretha was a genuine roll model for all women, all African-American people and yes, the world.
Aretha was an extremely successful women but she never forgot her roots and the city of Detroit.
She was matriarchal for people of all faiths, ethnicity and all who enjoyed music. Aretha had
gospel trained voice from her early years singing in the choir of the church her father pastored.
Every song she sang came from her heart. Songs like “(You Make Me Feel Like a) Natural Woman”, and “Respect”, in particular became her signature songs.
Aretha Franklin was the first woman inducted into the Music Hall of Fame. She won numerous
music awards. Aretha sang all kinds of songs like the true artist she was, that is what made her
incomparable. Truly, when Aretha sang she helped the listening public to just forget troubles
and have peace...have peace. Aretha told NPR, “I have been told by people my songs have helped
them get through hard times, the service of life. I am delighted by that”.
Aretha Franklin, was indeed the Queen, performing was a joy and she did that with true dignity
as long as she could. Aretha’s life should be celebrated because she brought a great lesson we all need to remember...R-E-S-P-E-C-T.