Aretha Franklin

About

Aretha Franklin was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist whose soulful sound made her the Queen of Soul. The daughter of a Baptist minister, Aretha began singing in the church at a young age and went on to earn 18 Grammy Awards throughout her illustrious career, as well as a spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Aretha Franklin Timeline

1942

Aretha Franklin is Born

Aretha Louise Franklin was born in Memphis, Tennessee on March 25, 1942.

1956

Gospel Singing Debut

At the age of 14, Aretha Franklin made her gospel singing debut at the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit.

1960

Signs with Columbia Records

Aretha signed a recording contract with Columbia Records.

1967

Releases "Respect"

Aretha releases her cover of Otis Redding's "Respect", which becomes an instant classic.

1968

Performs at the Grammy Awards

Aretha performs "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" at the Grammy Awards and receives a standing ovation.

1987

Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Aretha is inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and becomes the first female artist to do so.

2018

Aretha Franklin Passes Away

On August 16, 2018, Aretha passed away at the age of 76 due to pancreatic cancer.

5 Interesting Facts about Aretha Franklin

1. First Woman Inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame

Aretha Franklin was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.

2. Won 18 Grammy Awards

Aretha Franklin won 18 Grammy awards throughout her career, making her one of the most awarded female singers in Grammy history.

3. Recorded Over 112 Charting Singles

Aretha Franklin had over 112 charting singles throughout her career, including number one hits such as "Respect" and "Chain of Fools."

4. Sang at Three Presidential Inaugurations

Aretha Franklin sang at three presidential inaugurations, for Jimmy Carter, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama.

5. First Female Performer at the Met Opera House

Aretha Franklin was the first female performer at the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City in 1968.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Aretha Franklin birthday?

Aretha Franklin, the legendary soul singer, was born on March 25, 1942 and tragically passed away on August 16, 2018 at the age of 76. She is widely regarded as one of the best voices of all time and is best known for singing iconic songs such as "Respect," "Natural Woman" and "I Say A Little Prayer."

What is the Net Worth of Aretha Franklin?

Aretha Franklin had an estimated net worth of $80M. The iconic singer, songwriter and actress was known for her incredible vocal talent and success in the music industry. The majority of her wealth can be attributed to record sales, world tours, royalties, and endorsements.