Genius — Aretha
Season three delves into the extraordinary life and groundbreaking career of Aretha Franklin, illuminating the unparalleled artistry that cemented her place as a musical icon. This season celebrates not only her breathtaking talent – from gospel beginnings to becoming a global phenomenon – but also the profound cultural impact she had on the world. A recipient of countless accolades and a fearless voice for the Civil Rights movement, this is the story of how one woman became widely recognized as the defining vocalist of our time.
In 1967, Aretha Franklin journeyed to Muscle Shoals to record her debut album for Atlantic Records. This marked a significant moment, following the profound loss of her surrogate mother. Her path to solo artistry began in 1953, a courageou…
In 1966, Aretha Franklin’s talent first drew the attention of Jerry Wexler at Atlantic Records. Decades earlier, in 1954, a young Little Re gained her initial experience on the Gospel Circuit with C.L. Franklin, where she encountered her id…
By 1967 and 1968, Aretha Franklin navigated the complexities of a burgeoning music career alongside her unwavering dedication to the Civil Rights Movement, spearheaded by Martin Luther King Jr. Simultaneously, in 1955, Little Re chose to l…
In 1941, Barbara Franklin and Young C.L. Franklin found themselves striving for recognition in Memphis, their path complicated before the arrival of Little Re. Years later, in 1968, Aretha Franklin graced the cover of *Time* magazine, yet w…
In 1970, inspired by Angela Davis and the Soledad Brothers, a recording artist released a protest album titled “Young, Gifted and Black.” Despite initial reservations from her producer, the album found success. Earlier, in 1951, a pivotal …
Aretha Franklin's 1972 live gospel album, "Amazing Grace," stands as a testament to her artistry and unwavering vision. Despite pleas from her siblings to record at New Bethel Baptist Church with their father, C.L. Franklin, she insisted on…
The relentless tide of change swept through the music world, and Aretha Franklin found herself navigating unfamiliar currents. Determined to remain at the forefront, she embraced the burgeoning sound of disco, a bold move in a landscape inc…
Amidst life's trials – a second divorce, the loss of her father in 1984 – Aretha relentlessly pursued her artistry, achieving triumph through sheer force of will.
