Aretha Franklin, also known as the ‘Queen of Soul’ and one of the ‘greatest singers of all time’, has passed away on Thursday August 16, 2018 in Detroit, Michigan at the age of 76 due to advanced pancreatic cancer.
Aretha Franklin was born March 25, 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee but she grew up in Detroit, Michigan. Franklin’s career began in the church with gospel music and as it progressed she turned to pop music while still keeping her soulful roots. She was a powerhouse of a singer and made history throughout her career.

Aretha Franklin’s accomplishments

• Contributed to the Civil Rights Movement through her music: https://www.theatlantic.com/entertainment/archive/2018/08/aretha-franklins-revolution/567715/
• 44 Grammy nominations and 18 wins
• The first woman in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
• Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom during George W. Bush’s second term
• The state of Michigan declared her voice as a natural resource

a few ARetha franklin’s biggest hits

• “Freeway of Love” – 1967
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6FOUqQt3Kg0
• “Chain of Fools” – 1968
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MWOpINYVU38
• “Day Dreaming” – 1972
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=n_V48bCZZNU
• “Angel” – 1973
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8iHqGnGb5b8
• “I Knew You Were Waiting (For Me)” – Duet w/ George Michael – 1987
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KBCWLhlJV0Y

Singers paying their respects

I’m sitting in prayer for the wonderful golden spirit Aretha Franklin.

— Ms. Ross (@DianaRoss) August 16, 2018

Let’s all take a moment to give thanks for the beautiful life of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of our souls, who inspired us all for many many years. She will be missed but the memory of her greatness as a musician and a fine human being will live with us forever. Love Paul pic.twitter.com/jW4Gpwfdts

— Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) August 16, 2018

Aretha, your music set a standard for every single lady in this industry to rise to. You have touched minds, hearts and spirits, including my own. I pray you have a smooth journey Ree Ree and hopefully I'll get to sing with you in the Heavenly choir. Love you #QueenOfSoul pic.twitter.com/Rrw6JjDtCg

— Gladys Knight (@MsGladysKnight) August 16, 2018

This morning my longest friend in this world went home to be with our Father. I will miss her so much but I know she’s at peace. #QueenOfSoul pic.twitter.com/UatS3U3YXe

— Smokey Robinson (@smokeyrobinson) August 16, 2018

This photo was taken in 2012 when Aretha & I performed at a tribute celebration for our friend Marvin Hamlisch. It’s difficult to conceive of a world without her. Not only was she a uniquely brilliant singer,but her commitment to civil rights made an indelible impact on the world pic.twitter.com/Px9zVB90MM

— Barbra Streisand (@BarbraStreisand) August 16, 2018

Aretha Franklin carved a path for others that many thought would never exist, her importance within the African-American community is tremendous as is her career to the current music industry due to her influence on artists today. Her legacy will live on and she will not be forgotten.