Remembering the time Queen Latifah paid tribute to Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin took on the challenges of the music industry at the tender age of 12. Managed by her father, Franklin and her family knew she had a special gift before the world did. From going on the road with her dad's "gospel caravan" to signing her first deal with J.V.B Records, the world wasn't prepared for an authentic talent like Aretha.
"R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me/ R-E-S-P-E-C-T, take care of T-C-B." Those lyrics are from one of her hit songs, "Respect," written by Otis Redding. When watching classic Black shows and movies from the '90s, you heard this song in a scene, either sung by a young woman demanding respect from her family or during a family dance scene. There's no doubt that Aretha Franklin was a legend; it's a topic that will never be up for debate.
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The singer knew the value she held as a celebrity and, even before, used her power and voice to fight for women's rights. Franklin also provided money to civil rights groups and performed at benefits. Her honors include a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame (1979), being the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1987), Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award (1994), the Presidential Medal of Freedom (2005), and many more.
Dubbed the "Queen of Soul," it was only fitting that Franklin received a tribute as big as her contributions to music and human rights when she passed. On August 30, 2018, during her Homegoing Service, many artists paid tribute to her, including Angie Stone, Queen Latifah, Ronald Isley, Ariana Grande, and dozens more.
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