10 Surprising Facts About Aretha Franklin You Probably Didn’t Know
Aretha Franklin, also known as the Queen of Soul, was one of the most talented and influential singers of all time. Her powerful voice and soulful music touched the hearts of millions of people around the world. While many of us know about her legendary career and iconic songs, there are several little-known facts about Aretha Franklin that are sure to surprise you. Here are ten of them:
1. She was born into a family of musicians
Aretha Franklin was born on March 25, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee. Her father, C.L. Franklin, was a well-known Baptist preacher and civil rights activist, who also happened to be a talented musician. Her mother, Barbara Siggers Franklin, was a gospel singer. With such talented parents, it was no surprise that Aretha Franklin would end up being a musical prodigy herself.
2. She started singing at a young age
Aretha Franklin began singing in her father’s church when she was just a child. In fact, she made her first gospel recording at the age of 14. She was a naturally gifted singer who could play the piano by ear and had a unique ability to blend different musical styles, such as gospel and blues.
3. She had her first child at the age of 12
Aretha Franklin became pregnant for the first time when she was just 12 years old. She gave birth to a son named Clarence, who she raised with the help of her grandmother. She later had three more children with her first husband, Ted White.
4. She was a civil rights activist
Aretha Franklin was not just a talented singer, but also a passionate civil rights activist. She performed at several events for the movement, including Martin Luther King Jr.’s funeral. Her song “Respect” became an anthem for both women’s and civil rights, as it celebrated and demanded equality and respect for all.
5. She recorded one of the best-selling songs of all time
Aretha Franklin’s rendition of “Respect” became her signature song and one of the best-selling songs of all time. The song, which was originally written by Otis Redding, became an anthem for women’s rights and a symbol of empowerment for many. It won Aretha Franklin two Grammy awards in 1968 and lives on as a classic hit.
6. She was the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
Aretha Franklin was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. This was a significant achievement that recognized her contribution to music and her role in shaping the landscape of rock and roll.
7. She had a fear of flying
Despite being a world-renowned performer, Aretha Franklin had a fear of flying. She preferred to travel by bus, which she found more comfortable and safer than flying. During her career, she logged many miles of travel by bus, which is a testament to her dedication and spirit.
8. She was a prolific songwriter
Aretha Franklin wasn’t just a talented singer but also a prolific songwriter. She wrote many of her own songs, including “Think”, “Day Dreaming”, and “Rock Steady”. Her compositions often dealt with themes of love, heartbreak, and empowerment, and her lyrics reflected her personal experiences and emotions.
9. She was known for her extensive hat collection
Aretha Franklin was known for her great sense of style, and one of her signature accessories was her extensive hat collection. She often wore large, elaborate hats with feathers, bows, and other embellishments, which became a symbol of her personal style and stage presence.
10. Her voice was incomparable
Finally, perhaps the most surprising fact about Aretha Franklin was simply her incredible voice. Her range, power, and soulful delivery were unmatched, and she had a unique ability to connect with her audience through her music. Her legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time is well-deserved and continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
In conclusion, Aretha Franklin was a remarkable woman who left an indelible mark on the world of music. Her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire and entertain for years to come.
