After this morning's death of Aretha Franklin, there's no better way to honor her memory (besides re-committing yourself to the fight for civil rights, that is) than to watch her perform. She had a presence like none other, whether she was shimmying in a sequin gown with a group of backup singers, or singing opera because she had to cover for Pavarotti last minute. She demanded attention and respect as an artist and as black woman. So take a minute to watch her do what she did best--tear the goddamn house down. Here are some of the best.
Singing "Respect" in 1967. Otis Redding said of her cover of his song "that a girl took away from me, a friend of mine, this girl she just took this song."
Her 1968 performance of "Chain of Fools," where she doesn't even need backup to shine.
Her 1970 performance of "I Say A Little Prayer," complete with a turban and withering eye contact at the camera.
"Think" from the Blues Brothers, which apparently Aykroyd and Belushi had to fight for. Universal Pictures initially wanted them to go with disco hit "Car Wash" instead.
The music video for "A Rose Is Still A Rose," which reminds you she can do modern R&B as well as gospel and soul.
When she stepped in for Pavarotti at the very last minute to sing "Nessun Dorma" at the 1998 Grammys, and completely killed it. She'd go on to perform the song for Pope Francis in 2015.
Being introduced by Barack Obama to sing "Amazing Grace" at the Women of Soul performance on PBS. It wouldn't be the last time she made the President emotional with her music.
