Aretha Franklin is an icon in the music industry, known for her powerful voice and soulful delivery that resonates with audiences across generations. Her songs have become anthems of empowerment and social justice, showcasing her range as an artist and the depth of her emotions. With a career spanning over six decades, it can be challenging to narrow down her extensive discography to just ten songs.
Nevertheless, this list attempts to highlight the very best of Aretha Franklin’s work. From her iconic hits like “Respect” and “Natural Woman” to lesser-known tracks like “Call Me” and “You’re All I Need to Get By,” these songs showcase the breadth of Franklin’s talent. Each track is a testament to her unparalleled ability to convey raw emotion, from the empowering to the heart-wrenching. By celebrating the music of Aretha Franklin, we honor the legacy of a trailblazing artist who forever changed the landscape of music and inspired countless musicians to follow in her footsteps.
1. Respect
“Respect” is a soulful and empowering track that has become an anthem for civil rights and women’s empowerment. Originally recorded by Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin’s cover version transformed the song into a powerful statement of self-worth and dignity. The song’s iconic refrain “R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me” became a rallying cry for marginalized communities and a call to action for social justice. Franklin’s passionate vocals, backed by a driving rhythm section and powerful horns, create an unforgettable energy that still resonates with listeners today. “Respect” is a timeless classic that showcases the talent and impact of one of the greatest singers of all time.
2. (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
“(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” is a soulful ballad that has become one of Aretha Franklin’s most beloved songs. Written by Carole King, Gerry Goffin, and Jerry Wexler, the song celebrates the joy and beauty of falling in love. Franklin’s powerful vocals, backed by a gentle piano and soaring strings, create an intimate and emotional atmosphere that captures the essence of the lyrics. The song’s unforgettable chorus, “You make me feel like a natural woman,” has become a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the transformative power of love. “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” is a timeless classic that showcases Franklin’s incredible range and ability to convey raw emotion through her music.
3. Chain of Fools
“Chain of Fools” is a classic R&B track that has become one of Aretha Franklin’s most recognizable hits. The song’s driving rhythm, funky guitar riffs, and bold horns create a powerful groove that underscores Franklin’s soulful vocals. Written by Don Covay, the lyrics describe a woman who is tired of being treated poorly by her lover and decides to break free from his “chain of fools.” Franklin’s impassioned delivery captures the frustration and defiance of the lyrics, making the song an anthem of empowerment for women. “Chain of Fools” showcases Franklin’s ability to infuse even the most hard-hitting tracks with a sense of vulnerability and emotion, cementing her status as the “Queen of Soul.”
4. Think
“Think” is a high-energy R&B track that has become one of Aretha Franklin’s most iconic songs. Written by Franklin and her then-husband Ted White, the song features a driving beat, a catchy chorus, and Franklin’s powerhouse vocals. The lyrics urge the listener to think for themselves and make their own decisions, rather than relying on others to tell them what to do. The song’s infectious energy and memorable hook have made it a staple of pop culture, appearing in movies, television shows, and commercials. “Think” showcases Franklin’s ability to infuse her music with a sense of fun and playfulness while still delivering a powerful message. The song remains a testament to Franklin’s legacy as one of the greatest singers of all time.
5. I Say a Little Prayer
“I Say a Little Prayer” is a soulful and romantic track that has become one of Aretha Franklin’s most beloved songs. Written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, the song features a memorable melody and poignant lyrics about longing for love and the comfort of a loved one’s presence. Franklin’s vocals are full of emotion and sincerity, perfectly capturing the vulnerability and hopefulness of the lyrics. The song’s catchy chorus and infectious energy make it a joy to listen to, while Franklin’s delivery infuses the track with a sense of intimacy and warmth. “I Say a Little Prayer” is a timeless classic that showcases Franklin’s incredible talent as a singer and her ability to capture the essence of a song with her powerful voice.
6. Rock Steady
“Rock Steady” is an upbeat and funky track that showcases Aretha Franklin’s incredible range and versatility as a musician. Written by Franklin herself, the song features a driving rhythm, catchy horn riffs, and a contagious groove that gets the listener moving. Franklin’s powerful vocals are full of energy and attitude, perfectly matching the song’s infectious beat. The lyrics celebrate the power of music to bring people together and get them dancing, making “Rock Steady” a perfect party track that still sounds fresh and vibrant today. The song’s iconic hook and irresistible energy have made it a favorite among fans of Franklin’s music, cementing its status as a classic of the R&B genre. “Rock Steady” is a testament to Franklin’s creativity and talent as a songwriter, performer, and innovator in the world of music.
7. Dr. Feelgood (Love Is a Serious Business)
“Dr. Feelgood (Love Is a Serious Business)” is a soulful and bluesy track that showcases the raw power and emotion of Aretha Franklin’s vocals. Written by Franklin and her sister Carolyn, the song features a slow, sultry groove that perfectly matches the lyrics’ themes of love and desire. Franklin’s delivery is full of passion and intensity, conveying the depth of feeling that the lyrics express. The song’s memorable hook, “Don’t you make me feel so good,” has become a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the transformative power of love and the physical sensations that come with it. “Dr. Feelgood (Love Is a Serious Business)” is a testament to Franklin’s ability to convey complex emotions through her music, making it a classic of the R&B genre and a favorite among fans of Franklin’s music.
8. Baby I Love You
“Baby I Love You” is a soulful and romantic track that showcases the range and versatility of Aretha Franklin’s voice. Written by Ronnie Shannon, the song features a catchy melody, a driving rhythm, and a memorable hook that gets stuck in the listener’s head. Franklin’s vocals are full of emotion and tenderness, perfectly capturing the lyrics’ themes of love and devotion. The song’s horn section and backing vocals add to the track’s energy and create a joyful, celebratory atmosphere. “Baby I Love You” has become one of Franklin’s most beloved songs, showcasing her ability to deliver a powerful message with a sense of vulnerability and sincerity. The song remains a testament to Franklin’s incredible talent as a singer and her ability to connect with listeners on a deep and personal level.
9. Spanish Harlem
“Spanish Harlem” is a soulful and romantic track that showcases the depth and range of Aretha Franklin’s talent. Written by Jerry Leiber and Phil Spector, the song features a gentle rhythm, a beautiful melody, and poignant lyrics that capture the essence of Spanish Harlem, a vibrant and diverse neighborhood in New York City. Franklin’s vocals are full of warmth and sensitivity, perfectly capturing the longing and nostalgia of the lyrics. The song’s gentle piano and strings create an intimate and emotional atmosphere, transporting the listener to another time and place. “Spanish Harlem” is a timeless classic that showcases Franklin’s ability to connect with listeners on a personal and emotional level, cementing her status as one of the greatest singers of all time. The song remains a favorite among fans of Franklin’s music, a testament to the enduring power and beauty of her artistry.
10. Freeway of Love
“Freeway of Love” is an upbeat and funky track that showcases Aretha Franklin’s versatility as a musician and her ability to stay current with contemporary music trends. Written by Jeffrey Cohen and Narada Michael Walden, the song features a driving beat, catchy horn riffs, and a memorable chorus that gets the listener singing along. Franklin’s vocals are full of energy and attitude, perfectly matching the song’s infectious groove. The lyrics celebrate the joy and freedom of cruising down the freeway with the windows down and the music blasting, making “Freeway of Love” a perfect summer anthem. The song’s iconic music video, featuring Franklin in a pink Cadillac with a cast of colorful characters, has become a classic of the MTV era. “Freeway of Love” is a testament to Franklin’s ability to adapt to changing musical styles and to create timeless classics that resonate with audiences across generations.
