The NLS Music Section mourns the loss of Aretha Franklin, a giant in popular and gospel music.
Starting with her gospel singing in her father’s church, Ms. Franklin established an unforgettable presence with a powerful delivery and message about spirituality and the ups and downs of love.
She was from Detroit, and while Motown was based in Detroit, Ms. Franklin recorded for Columbia and Atlantic Records, among other labels. The NLS Music Section has From Jumpstreet, a Story of Black Music DBM 00715, available for download from BARD. For braille readers, Motown: 50th Anniversary Songbook, BRM 36141 and Carole King: A Deluxe Anthology with “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” at BRM 36388.
In the NLS talking books collection, the following are available for download or loan; Aretha: From These Roots, DB 49374, Respect: The Life of Aretha Franklin, DB 79771, and Aretha Franklin: Lady Soul, DB 44493.
Look out, angels; this woman can sing!