Aretha Franklin (1942–2018), the "Queen of Soul"

Aretha Franklin (1942–2018) was affectionately called “the Queen of Soul.” Blessed with an incredible voice, she was a giant of soul music. Franklin’s signature song was her version of Otis Redding’s “Respect,” released in 1967. Her many hit songs included “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “Freeway of Love,” and “Rock Steady.”

We invite you to share condolences for Aretha Franklin in her Guest Book.

Died:0Thursday, August 16, 2018a(Who else died on August 16?)

Details of Death:aDied due to advanced pancreatic canceraat the age of 76, according to multiple news sources.

Memorable Moments:a The first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. Given a Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. Ranked first on Rolling Stone’s list of the greatest singers of all time.

Notable Quote:a“Being a singer is a natural gift. It means I'm using to the highest degree possible the gift that God gave me to use. I'm happy with that.”

What people said about her:a “The voice of God, if you must know, is Aretha Franklin's.” —Singer Marianne Faithfull

• Read the full obituary for Aretha Franklin

Birthdate:aMarch 25, 1942 (Who else was born March 25?)

• See Aretha's greatest performances

Related Lives:

• James Brown, Say It Loud
• Sam Cooke, the King of Soul
• Ella Fitzgerald, Glamour Girl
• Whitney Houston: The Greatest of All
• Otis Redding: The Other Day the Music Died
• Soul and R&B Music Stars—Video Gallerya