Reviews (page 3 of 13)
Ground-breaking, influential album with the genre defining vocals of Miss Aretha Franklin. An undeniable classic in every sense of the word for every category you can think of regarding the recording arts.
Aretha is so amazing and she elevates these tracks so high, it feels a bit cheap to dig on the band, who are only serviceable. So, because of that one thing, I won’t award this album six stars. Six is too generous.
totally a great album, lots of good songs and super solid start with Respect
потрясающая заряжающая музыка! прибавляет уверенности, сил, ощущения, что все будет классно. обязательно буду слушать еще!
Honestly a bop
Now we're talking! Aretha (one of those people who don't need a last name) is the undisputed Queen of Soul and this is her signature album. Starting with "Respect" which alone would already justify five stars, every single song is carefully arranged around Aretha's legendary voice at it's best. Had it on repeat all day, this one never gets old!
Not much more to say in Aretha. The greatest ever.
I first listened to this on my apple air pods and they completely strip Aretha’s voice of its richness and nuance. Had to blast this in the car stereo to get the full effect, and I’m so glad I did. Her tone has a whole world inside it. Don’t let me lose this dream is so fucking good. I wanna make my son listen to ‘never loved a man the way I love you’ to teach him how to be a heartbreaker. This album rips.
“When she starts singin’, she blows everyones minds, EVERYONE WANTS TO PARTY WITH Aretha” ~ Jack Black - School of rock Some singers are just better transferring their emotions to their audiences. Shes at the tippy top the list. Big pipes and infectious charisma Big fan of Drown In My Own Tears, Dr. Feelgood and Good Times.
I think Lady Sould takes the cake for me, has just a little more punch, but it's a tight race. Absolute classic.
You have no heart if you don't like this album - it's a cornerstone of soul music. Every moment feels good, which isn't surprising with it all glued together by the Muscle Shoals rhythm section. Absolute peak Aretha.
It’s so good I can’t even think of a pithy joke. Actually I wish I could rate U2 lower
Aretha Franklin is an amazing singer and artist. I really enjoyed this album. So many great songs.
The definitive example of the Muscle Shoals sound with one of the greatest singers of all time. What’s not to love?
Perfection
Anyone who rates this album lower than a 4 needs help. Aretha’s iconic voice, performing foundational songs, with such passion — this is an outstanding performance! A five.
Rating: 5/5 This album doesn’t just sing; it testifies, seduces, burns, and then politely hands you a tissue while you weep into your cereal. Tracks like “Respect” and “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man” aren’t just songs, they’re national landmarks. It’s like Aretha looked directly into the camera of history and said, “Please sit down, I’ve got this.” And yes, if you were wondering, she did all this in pearls while annihilating every note. You don’t listen to this album. You surrender to it.
Aretha's voice is a wonder to hear. Such a presence as music shifts in the 60's. We embraced her, the Beatles, and Jimi Hendrix. Her lyrics spoke to women - and lessened men.
Classic
easy 5
Just listened to this 2 days ago!
Lungs!
A legend for sure. So much feeling in her voice, and it sounds amazing in every song. Super tight band as well.
Hard to review an album like this - such power, such a voice, so good.
ughhh love
A great album... of great songs... by a great singer... "Respect"... hoo! that's all she's askin' for... when you get home... and that's just the opening track... "Drown In My Own Tears", is given a slower more Gospel tone than the Ray Charles version... showcasing Aretha's piano playing... "I Never Loved A Man" is such a bad ass song... a true artist at the very top of her powers... "Dr. Feelgood"... "Do Right Woman"... are big highlights as well... this is a record that deserves more... but, i give it FIVE STARS... all day and all night...
Fantastic album, soulful fantastic songs what a voice. A must lsten.
The greatest to ever do it, at her peak.
A wonderful album. Aretha comes out swinging with Respect as the opening track, but keeps hitting out of the park as the album goes on, with tracks like Drown in My Own Tears, and the bossa nova styling of Don't let me lose this dream. Overall, a fantastic listen, and i could only imagine what it would have been like in 1967 listening to this for the first time
lindo lindo lindo
Great singer, great band, great songs.
Does it get any better than the Queen of Soul?
It's Aretha Franklin...show some R-E-S-P-E-C-T!
No notes ever for Aretha
cracking stuff
9/10 Aretha the goat
Hard sometimes to place classic albums in their context. I.e. how did the world listen to this in 1967? In 2025 music has built on this, been inspired by this, and so while I have never listened to the whole album, it feels very familiar. Was it ground breaking in 1967? Did it change things? Perhaps, perhaps not. I have no intention of doing the research to find out. Listening to it today with a song like 'Respect' firmly in the global consciousness, I cannot imagine a world without this. Perhaps thats worth a 5.
Great. Especially Do right woman, do right man and Respect
Respect!!!
Not a lot to say here. It’s a classic. One of the best soul albums ever made… and the voice of Aretha when she at the top of her game
A perfect soul album, perhaps one of the greatest ever released. I used to think it was a bit too polished compared to some of her other works (it doesn’t have the raw energy of Lady Soul, for instance), but after a second listen I realized how incredibly well-balanced this album is. There’s absolutely no filler, each song is exactly as it should be. The instrumentation is just the right kind of smooth, and Aretha’s voice is probably at her peak. Pure classic !
Quality music. *Chef's kiss* 5/5 stars
The Queen of Soul. YES!!!
Just incredible
Straight fire
Great album from a great singer. Her voice is so so good throughout. Even though I had just heard Respect before the other songs are just as good.
There's just no denying it - I was made for this sort of music. Ever since I was a kid soulful, powerful voices like Aretha and Etta always got my attention. The older I got and branched out - the same old story. Aretha is and was the Queen. Full stop. And this record is absolutely no different. Filled with heart, soul, and everything in between!
Even with the poor production and inconsistent mix. Aretha's voice is the star here on this amazing classic album.
Beautiful album. Truly loved how you can hear the emotion and passion in her voice in each song. My favorites were probably I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You) and Respect. I will definitely be listening to more Soul albums after this masterpiece!
loved it
It’s my 200th album. The generator clearly thought that deserved a little R.E.S.P.E.C.T and threw me a soul classic.
What more can I add to the discussion around Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul? Such an iconic voice who proved to be influential across decades of popular music for her emotional yet powerful delivery. There was never a doubt as to how I would feel about her vocals. As for the album itself, I Never Loved a Man the Way I Loved You boasts original compositions that are genuine bops, as well as covers that can go toe-to-toe with their original artists, and at times even transcend and transform the work into her own. Seriously, "Respect" has become more synonymous with her than Otis Redding, and her version of "A Change Is Gonna Come" rivals Sam Cooke's. There are several go-for-broke, boastful performances from Aretha and the accompanying musicians on this record, from the title track to "Dr. Feelgood (Love is a Serious Business)", from King Curtis's "Soul Serenade" to her own "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man", and so on. This album is a certified soul classic that has withstood the test of time, and I'm glad to have enjoyed it from start to finish.
ARETHA FRONKILN!!!!
Aretha love it.
What do you want me to say. It pure, raw, unadulterated, soul. It’s what music should be. And while she’s not as raw as other artists that’s just not her sound and that’s okay. if you were to strip away all the innovation in music over the last 100 years this would still remain because its beyond music as an art form It’s a 5, it was always going to be a 5, Aretha fucked me up and down with this one
Ts is gas. I love that I don't feel like I'm listening to the same song over and over again. Her voice is beautiful and she does amazing renditions of some classics.
WILL be added to the rotation
This was awesome. This isn't the typical music that I like, but I'm glad I listened to it. I've heard her sing before but I don't think I really got it until just now. Obviously, I've heard "Respect" before but the whole album just hits different. It's not the music I'd listen to on a road trip, but it's the music I'd listen to while cooking dinner with the family. And I don't mean that background music is a bad thing, it can elevate a mood and set a tone which is awesome. I just listened to it while working and it made my monotonous task much more enjoyable. So much is made about her voice and it's certainly one of a kind, but the band/music here is just as good. The Swampers are just excellent on this album...what this album is, is a perfect blend of an amazing vocalist and amazing musicians. 5/5 for sure.
A wonderful album - I didn't realize I liked Aretha Franklin this much!
Already reviewed! Legendary album
As weird as this sounds. She will always be ahead of her time. Favorite Track: Do Right Woman, Do Right Man
Truly one of the greatest to ever do it
I'm mesmerized by her voice.
If you give this album anything lower than 4 stars, you’re just a troll. Franklin is using this record to cement her position in history as the greatest to ever do it.
One of the finest, if not the finest, albums in Aretha Franklin's extensive discography and one of the greatest, if not the greatest, soul records to emerge from the 1960s.
great — and YOUNG vocals!
Aretha me ha acompañado desde la infancia y ha sido un álbum muy escuchado en casa , siempre que la escucho es maravillosa. Una media hora muy amena
Really good
Nog een easy vijf sterren. Misschien wel het beste Aretha-album.
Highs: Soul Serenade, A Change is Gonna Come
There is nothing bad I could possibly say about this album. It’s perfect. Aretha will forever be the greatest female vocalist of all time. Automatic 5 stars.
This was really good, iconic even, but also really short. Today it'd be an ep. Do I take points off for being so short? Nah.
iconic
Beautiful voice! 5/5
Peerfect
Opens with an all time classic, Respect. Really good song. We've all heard it before, but we've heard it for a reason. And the album keeps rolling from there, grooving and moving along really smoothly. Lol, and I love the bossa nova of Don't let me lose this Dream. OOhh, and I love the call and response in Save Me, along with the chugging guitar. Lol, and does it really have two iterations of the exact same track Respect on the album... or is that just spotify? Ah, that's unique to the 1995 reissue, where they did a stereo recording.
a lot of the songs could have been longer ngl (this is a good thing btw). i hate to glaze “respect” since it is the most mainstream track BUT it’s popular for a reason. easily her catchiest and most vocally impressive track. aretha franklin is just a beast. 5/5.
Fricking classic
just one of those albums that speaks for itself. surprised by how much I loved the slower gospelly piano tracks highs: respect, soul serenade, a change is gonna come lows: nothing
MASTERPIECE GOD DAMN Now I understand. Aretha's vocals are incredible, they take you somewhere new. Definitely worth it. Top 3: 1) A Change is Gonna Come 2) Do Right Woman, Do Right Man 3) Respect
La mejor voz en su mejor momento
She kills it
Fave Songs: Respect, Drown In My Own Tears, Soul Serenade, Baby, Baby, Baby, Good Times, Do Right Woman, Do Right Man, A Change Is Gonna Come
The Queen
The Voice.
The Queen of Soul. I bow down to you. One of the all-time greats.
It’s Aretha. Really not much more needs to be said. Classic. It’s a 5 and that’s that.
Excellent ! RESPECT, de loi sa chanson la plus connue, est certes très importante, mais le reste de l'album n'est pas de moindre qualité. Elle est la "Queen of Soul", et c'est un titre amplement mérité. Que dire de plus ?
Excellent voice, superb songs, in short an excellent album.
Aretha Franklin is the Queen/Bad Bitch of Soul. This is the album with Respect, the greatest cover song of all time, and a bunch of other excellent songs. Did I listen to this album carefully/with a critical ear? Not really, but I'm a big fan of this era of soul, a big fan of Aretha Franklin, and if I see this record, I will definitely pick it up.
Klassiker, lief entspannt im Hintergrund
Immaculate voice
may no good fall upon any white person that rated this less than 4 stars
What can be said about this. One of the all time great collection of songs by one of the greatest singers ever. Pure bliss.
R E S P E C T
This album is great. Stunning vocals. Great musicians. Great songs. Will be coming back to this.
What an awesome album. Long live the queen
RESPECT. Great vibes! Fun instrumentals and vocal work. 'Respect' is easily the best bop here.
60s music hits. I loved the covers in this album. And Respect is a banger
Classic for a reason
What am I supposed to write here? It’s Aretha. If I give this album any less than its deserved five stars she will arise from the netherworld and banish me to the land of wind and ghosts.
I am not a huge Aretha fan, but the first time I heard this album, I was so knocked out by it, I went straight out and got myself a copy. I don’t think I fully appreciated how talented she was until I heard this album. It is sublime, her voice is tremendous and it’s nice to hear her interpret other people’s songs. I love the ‘church’ phrasings in the way she sings, and she boots the arse out of soul music. Her voice on A Change is Gonna Come is perfect. This album puts all other soul albums to shame. Great great album, and a worthy addition to my collection. This should definitely be on the list because the entire album is faultless.
I mean, it's the Queen.
I could probably listen to Aretha sing the phone book. This album is solid from beginning to end and feels like you could needle drop anywhere and slap it in a movie or TV show.
Can't find a single bad thing to say about this album. 10/10
Belting
imagine being the kind of singer where you can go sing an Otis Redding song and then that's your song now. Otis Redding. unbelievable five stars
I’ve got a real high baseline for how much I like a record like this, and figured this would be about at it, if not a bit higher. But whoa, Aretha Franklin rocks. She locks in with her drummer so good, amazing singer. Loved this.
Great album
Few have belted it with feeling the way Aretha did. Take out respect an an excellent cover of "A change is gonna come" and it is still a solid 3.5. Those take it to a five pretty easily
Aretha puts some stank on it.
-Do you haver a soul? "That All depends" Gordon, Rob. High Fidelity. Sgor Venus.
Legendary
4.7 - She's just fucking great, and great band behind her
Mto bommm Esse álbum inteiro é uma trilha de música de um filme Amo esse estilo anos 60
Another great album from a strong female artist. Second in two days! Do right woman, do right man, respect and a change is gonna come stand out tracks.
So pleased AF has come up on the list. Makes such a change from the, sometimes, constant round of white male rock. Great voice; great songs. Favourites, Do Right Woman, Do Right Man, Save Me and Respect
Classic
Saying Aretha is incredible is like saying water is wet, but my first time through a full album of hers and I’m damn near speechless
Отличная музыка, очень нравится эта исполнительница
This is so soulful!!!
The Queen of Soul. 'Nuff said.
loved this one!
Classic
Her voice is as buff as a competing bodybuilder, and these songs are all flexes.
Queen of soul.
Love Aretha Franklin💖
Powerful
My second Aretha generated and still as beautiful and brilliant as ever. Incomparable.
Sometimes it’s enough to just listen to the greatest singer ever sing a bunch of amazing songs.
Great soul album and amazing vocals as one would expect. Respect has to be one of the greatest songs of all time, show me someone who dislikes that song
Har svårt att tänka mig att det gjordes så mycket som lät bättre än såhär 1967. Lyssnar sällan på soul men av nån anledning träffade detta helt rätt. Kan ha fått en musikalisk uppenbarelse.
Respect I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Loved You) Dr. Feelgood (Love Is a Serious Business) Do Right Woman, Do Right Man A Change Is Gonna Come
What an incredible album! can't believe only Respect is so well known.
Beautiful album. Lush horns. Amazing
Unqualified triumph. Every song.
probably the best thing i've gotten so far
brought tears to my eyes.
Incredible album, beautifully rich voice
It’s annoying that Spotify doesn’t have the bonus tracks differentiated in any way, how hard is it to put -Bonus Track? Anyway, excellent album. Aretha is one is the greats.
I mean, it's brilliant
Fantastic vibes. Always a good day to listen to the queen of soul
Ooooooh this is so sweet and rich feel like my ears are buried in a big gooey cake. laid in a towel with my hair up and this is like the perfect music to be listening to. Good Times Absolute Banger if a little conspicuous among the gooey soul. This is flawless I'm actually emotional about how lovely it is. What a voice obviously but also the production is so so beautiful. Miss Aretha this was a long overdue meeting.
This lady can do no wrong. What a voice
Someone else said this album automatically gets at least a 4 because of Respect alone, and I wholeheartedly agree. I grew up to my parents listening to Motown, so I'm pretty familiar with this, but I hadn't heard some of the B-sides from this album. The music just wants to make me sing and dance along with it. Queen Aretha's vocals are amazing, and the backing tracks hop. Motown is one of those cultural things that was a product of it's time and the forces moving in the world then. I don't think it could be recreated with as much authenticity or power ever again. These artists moved the art of music in a way that we will likely never see again, and used their art and talents to draw attention to cultural norms and injustices that needed to change. They also left us with some of the best anthems and love songs ever created.
If the Queen of Soul can't move you, you're dead. Just the vocals alone on A Change is Gonna Come give me hope in these times. Put this on and let her carry you away.
Possibly the greatest vocalist ever. Respect is a highlight but even the deep cuts sound amazing
Fantastic all around.
Aretha is untouched and unmatched. No one did it quite like her. Soulful power, while still feeling totally approachable. Like a strong and confident big sister. Love this.
This album is the sort of treasure that I know I will enjoy when I listen to it but for some reason it just doesn't seem to go in to regular rotation. Aretha's voice is just so amazing and this collection shows just how good she was. I am glad this was presented, it was a perfect Saturday morning mood lifter.
All hail the Queen!
I loved it. Beautiful.
Wow!!! First time actually giving Aretha a listen and she did not disappoint! I want to replay!
Aretha Franklin, Queen of soul - need I say more? This album was as perfect as she is, I was really struggling to not add every single song into my list of favourites
Fantastic, love the bluesy singing
dediğim gibi reenkarnemde tok sesli bir siyahi kadın olmak isterdim
Banger obviously
There’s just nobody quite like Queen Aretha
The authentic soul sound in my opinion. Multi genre Inspiration. Rock, pop and hip hop can draw Inspiration from the sounds and tempo.
I LOVE Aretha's VOCALS!
What an amazing voice and a fantastic album! Lots of well known songs!
++*: Respect, Don't Let Me Lose This Dream, Good Times ++: Drown in My Own Tears, I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Loved You), Soul Serenade, Baby, Baby, Baby, Dr. Feelgood (Love Is a Serious Business), Do Right Woman, Do Right Man, Save Me, A Change Is Gonna Come 10/10
Jesus, I mean it’s absolutely wall to wall with indelible classics. But it’s always her powerful, super musical piano playing that jumps out at me.
She’s so good.
The queen 👑
Classic soul right here. Aretha's voice is smooth as butter on these songs. Sultry where she needs to be and powerful when you want her to be. The slower tracks are my least favorite as usual but even those were good. This album will make its way into my cooking playlist.
R-E-S-P-E-C-T! Great song to kick off the album. An all time great soul song. THis came out the same year Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell were singing Ain't No Mountain High Enough....Motown is overrated. There's a reason they call Aretha the Queen of Soul. Drown in My Own Tears is another great song. I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You) is the best Aretha song and arguably the greatest soul song of all time. I love this song. Everything is perfect about this song, the organ, the horns, her voice. The Muscle Shoals sound at its peak. Motown is R&B, this is Soul. This album is amazing. There isn't a single miss on this whole album. Save Me has the same bass line as Gloria and I love it. A Change Is Gonna Come is better when Sam Cooke does it, but the cover is ok. This album is super highly regarded and it's still not high enough.
vier bis fünf
Perfect embodiment of the Muscle Shoals RnB sound, harnessed in support of an incredible vocal performance - not just an amazing voice, but impassioned singing capturing a big emotional range. Deep gospel roots, uptempo funk on the bass, mellow jazzy piano to cool down the heat from the horns - it sounds amazing: rich, warm, lush. The whole album is a joyful comfort.
Classic. Aretha is a star in every sense. Commanding vocals and timeless arrangements
I don't even know. I'm on my first listen through and I've just had it on in the background while working and thinking. I haven't heard a note that I didn't like, much less a song. Not sure if there are enough stars available to rate this one accurately. Yeah, 5/5. This album is excellent!
An all time classic. Her cover of the Sam Cooke song was the best way to end this album.
One of the greatest voices of all time putting on a clinic for 41 minutes. Superb listen, the ability to evoke emotion out of your audience with the mere sound of your voice is a special talent. I R E S P E C T the quality of this album, just phenomenal!
Wow I thought this would likely be good, then it started off so good I thought maybe it’s a 4 but it is even better than that. This is a solid 5 for me and the best I have heard from Aretha. Fantastic.
Gorgeous voice; delightful music; feminist icon.
Man, Aretha's voice is incredible. She's a phenomenal singer, and she's capable of moving souls with her music. Respect is not only one of the most popular songs ever, but it also really is musically incredible too. It is pretty clearly the best song on the album, but the other songs are also great. Favorite Song(s): Respect, Dr. Feelgood
Top notch! The queen of soul. Love me some old Motown.
Wonderful
i love u aretha!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
She could sing the alphabet and it'd be five stars
Simplesmente incrível. Claramente irie escutar esse álbum várias e várias vezes durante o resto da minha vida .
freakin
The production on this is fantastic given how old it is. What a voice ! Shivers ! Uplifting, powerful, angry, girl power soul at its greatest. This is a no skip album. Surrounded by some of the best musicians to have ever graced the earth, one of the the greatest female vocalists ever is in good company. Best songs: Respect obviously, DrFeelgood and Good Times. Worst song : good luck finding one
Dang, this is great. This album is almost 60 years old but still sounds so fresh and vibrant.
Beautiful songs, incredible voice. And it’s all over much too quickly. Otherwise a perfect album.
One of my all time favorite albums from one of my all time favorite artists. An eaaaaaasy 5. I don’t own this vinyl, and it pains me. I look for it every time I go record shopping.
This album has the DNA of so much modern day music that it is insane. Outrageously influential and beautiful album.
Wonderful.
espetacular, muscle scholes sound, swampers , repertório foda! AF nos seus melhores momentos!
The queen, there may never be a better soul album
Sheer soulful perfection. Will never lose this dream.
Controversial but I’ve never been a huge fan of Respect. But the rest of this album is enough to counteract my unjustified dislike. One of the greatest voices ever.
absolutely beautiful. of course i'd heard "Respect" and "Do Right Woman, Do right man" before but i was surprised by how short they were and how well they sounded in the album as a whole. the global orchestration behind Franklin's voice really makes it sound even better. I discovered "Soul Serenade" and it's now a personal soul favorite. and finally that cover of Sam Cooke's "A change is gonna come" WOW 🤯 it's now my favorite version of the song. incredible record.
Really incredible album. So many things to like about it and so few things to complain about. Her 10th album, but her first commercial success: wild
She's basically the touchstone for female vocals and soul.
Phenomenal album
really, what is there to say that hasn't already been said a million times and more eloquently?
Phenomenal voice. Nostalgic listen as my mum loved aretha
Aretha has some pipes that is for sure. I enjoyed the variety of tempos, piano, percussion, and horns on this album. A solid listen.
She had one of the greatest voices of all time, no doubt about it. Album was really great, lyrics were solid, very soulful, "Respect" is one of her best works (didn't know it was a cover until today). In my personal enjoyment this is probably a 4 but I think this album is worthy of a 5.
Yeah, it's covers, but that was the time! The soul and voice really carry.
5/5. She is 25 on this album and yet sings as though she has lived 7 different lives as a black woman, married, divorced, humiliated, and disrespected but no more. She stands her ground and lets everyone know who she is and how she exists for herself and for whoever she wishes to give time to. And I'm sure she received the same flack young female artists receive today, probably even more so. Just by listening to the album, you can already tell she is well aware of this and is already just providing the energy needed to keep her sanity. Just a crazy good album, even if she is the only highlight from each song really. Best Song: Respect, A Change Is Gonna Come, Soul Serenade
Wow. What a performer! There’s a reason she’s called the Queen of Soul. These performances are packed with emotion. Every syllable has so much feeling. Great band behind her too. The songs are excellent and include some classics (“Respect” opens the album and her version of “A Change Is Gonna Come” is a stunning closing track) along with a few songs I wasn’t familiar with that are also fantastic.
Yeah, this is great. She's the Queen of Soul for a reason. Respect is iconic, obviously, Good Times is fun, and her performance throughout is great.
Great, a lot of huge songs.
Great album. Numerous classic songs by a wonderful singer
She’s an icon, she’s a legend. We know this. I knew this album would be good, but I’m so thankful to have given it a listen - multiple listens. This one is going to stay in rotation for a while. I want to keep feeling her voice and the music. She sounds so young here, but so powerful and commanding. I want to learn all the lyrics and belt them out in my car. An important album and artist.
The Queen of Soul! Always a pleasure listening to Aretha. This was a groundbreaking record. Passionate, soulful and raw. Easily in the top 10 albums of the 1960s.
Chills. More emotional resonance in one note than some artists have in their entire discography. This album is a gift, and I am grateful for it!
How good is this album!
Old but gold
Aretha is a force of nature
She’s got it, baby, she’s good.
Aretha Franklin sits at the head table. She is a goddess in the music world. I did not know when this album ended and the next one began (youtube auto play), and I did not care. If you just want to listen to something that is beautiful, regardless of personal mood or what is going on in your life, you don't have to listen to this particular album, but just listen to Aretha Franklin and you will be transformed. Kinda how her magic works. I felt like I had listened for five minutes and I was listening to another album after this one by the time I looked to see where I was in the playlist. I love all kinds of music. Genre has a small but often unimportant role, decade, country of origin... and I have heard all the arguments about these things being "the best" or how this or that decade was "better"... I think it is more about some music and musicians are timeless and Aretha Franklin is one of them!
Aretha Franklin's *I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You* (1967) stands as a monumental achievement in music history, blending soul, gospel, and blues into an album that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. This record not only marked Franklin's breakthrough into mainstream success but also redefined the boundaries of soul music, cementing her as the "Queen of Soul." Below is an in-depth review of the album, focusing on its lyrics, music, production, themes, influence, and an evaluation of its strengths and weaknesses. ## **Lyrics** The lyrics across the album explore themes of love, heartbreak, empowerment, and faith. Tracks like "Respect" and "I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)" are particularly notable for their emotional depth and cultural resonance. - **"Respect"**: Originally written by Otis Redding, Franklin transformed this song into an anthem of empowerment. By flipping the narrative, she demanded respect not only as a woman but also as an individual asserting her autonomy. The addition of the iconic "R-E-S-P-E-C-T" spelling and the "sock it to me" refrain elevated its message to one of universal appeal[1][4]. - **"I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)"**: This title track captures the tension between love and betrayal. Franklin's delivery oscillates between vulnerability and defiance, making it a masterclass in emotional storytelling[1][3]. - **"Dr. Feelgood (Love Is Serious Business)"**: This sultry track delves into themes of physical desire and intimacy with unapologetic candor. Franklin's lyrics are bold yet nuanced, reflecting both passion and agency[5]. - **"A Change Is Gonna Come"**: A cover of Sam Cooke's civil rights anthem, Franklin adds layers of faith and personal struggle to the song. Her reinterpretation shifts some of Cooke’s ambiguity into a declaration of hope rooted in her identity as both a Black woman and an artist[5]. The lyrics throughout the album are deeply expressive, often transcending their literal meanings through Franklin's unparalleled vocal delivery. ## **Music** Musically, *I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You* is a fusion of gospel-rooted soul with elements of blues and jazz. The album’s arrangements are simple yet powerful, allowing Franklin’s voice to take center stage. - The instrumentation features tight horn sections, groovy basslines, and gospel-inspired piano and organ work. Tracks like "Soul Serenade" showcase a jazzy elegance, while others like "Do Right Woman – Do Right Man" lean heavily into gospel traditions[2][6]. - The rhythm section (featuring Muscle Shoals musicians) creates a solid foundation for Franklin’s dynamic vocal performances. Drummers like Roger Hawkins provide a pocket that enhances the emotional intensity of each track[2]. - Franklin’s piano playing is another highlight. On tracks like "I Never Loved a Man," her piano comping adds depth to the arrangements while demonstrating her musical versatility[1]. ## **Production** The production by Jerry Wexler at Atlantic Records played a crucial role in shaping the album’s sound. Unlike her earlier records at Columbia, where she was often constrained by lush orchestrations that stifled her individuality, this album allowed Franklin to shine. - Wexler’s minimalist approach ensured that Franklin’s voice remained the focal point. The rawness of the Muscle Shoals sessions added authenticity to tracks like "I Never Loved a Man"[2][6]. - The production strikes a balance between polish and grit, capturing both the intimacy and power of Franklin’s performances. ## **Themes** Thematically, *I Never Loved a Man* is rich and multifaceted: 1. **Empowerment**: Songs like "Respect" embody themes of self-respect and independence. 2. **Love and Heartbreak**: Tracks such as "I Never Loved a Man" delve into the complexities of romantic relationships. 3. **Faith and Hope**: Gospel influences permeate songs like "Do Right Woman – Do Right Man" and "A Change Is Gonna Come," reflecting themes of spiritual resilience. 4. **Sensuality**: "Dr. Feelgood" explores physical desire with unabashed honesty. These themes resonate on both personal and societal levels, making the album timelessly relevant. ## **Influence** The impact of *I Never Loved a Man* cannot be overstated: - It redefined soul music by blending gospel fervor with secular themes in ways that were both innovative and deeply moving. - The album became one of the first feminist statements in popular music—not just through its lyrics but also through Franklin’s newfound artistic autonomy[2][4]. - Tracks like "Respect" became cultural touchstones for both the Civil Rights Movement and second-wave feminism. - The album influenced countless artists across genres, from Whitney Houston to Adele, solidifying Franklin’s legacy as one of music’s greatest vocalists[6]. ## **Pros** 1. **Vocal Mastery**: Aretha Franklin's voice is unparalleled in its range, power, and emotional nuance. 2. **Cultural Significance**: Songs like "Respect" transcend music to become cultural anthems. 3. **Cohesive Sound**: Despite covering diverse themes, the album flows seamlessly from start to finish. 4. **Innovative Arrangements**: The blend of gospel, soul, blues, and jazz creates a rich musical tapestry. 5. **Timelessness**: Over five decades later, the album remains as impactful as ever. ## **Cons** 1. **Lyrical Simplicity on Some Tracks**: While Franklin elevates even straightforward lyrics with her delivery, some songs lack lyrical complexity when read independently. 2. **Production Constraints**: Though groundbreaking at the time, certain production choices may feel dated compared to modern standards. 3. **Overemphasis on Covers**: Some critics argue that relying on covers (e.g., Otis Redding's "Respect," Sam Cooke's "A Change Is Gonna Come") limits originality in songwriting. ## **Conclusion** *I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You* is more than just an album; it is a landmark in music history that captures Aretha Franklin at her transformative best. With its blend of emotional depth, vocal brilliance, and cultural significance, it remains one of the greatest albums ever recorded. While minor criticisms exist—such as occasional lyrical simplicity or reliance on covers—these do little to diminish its overall impact. The album not only elevated soul music but also served as a powerful statement on love, empowerment, and resilience that continues to inspire generations.
Amazing voice. Groovy.
Awesome. Could listen on repeat all day long.
Wow! Great album. I’ve heard most of the songs but what a great album together! Definitely worth many a listen and deserves to be on this list
5/5
How can you not give this/her a 5 star review. When I listen I keep thinking, this must be the best female voice ever recorded. It just so goddamn good! And the music is just so catchy - it’s not something I would put on regularly though, but this record is just so damn good that I can’t give it less than 5 stars
Sooo good
Queen.
Aretha. That's it, thx
So good, a classic.
Fantastic. Historical. Crazy it was her 10th studio album.
She’s the Queen of Soul for a reason.
One of the greatest voices ever singing her greatest song? Easy 5 stars, give me a break. Hilarious quote from the Rolling Stone review in 1967 when this was released, saying the album was weak, due to: '...the lack of versatility on the part of the sidemen. The drums weren't hard enough, the guitar was weak, and the production lacked polish.' That quote has not aged well.
Bring me to church!
she can do no harm in eyes thank you for this
- When America eventually fades away and archeologists are searching for pieces of our long-forgotten culture, we would be lucky to have this be the one thing they found. - So far, this is the best album I have encountered on this list. No debate necessary. Just phenomenal. - Surprised to find out that "Baby, Baby, Baby" is my favorite. Did not know it.
I could not believe how amazing this was. So many songs that were covered that I loved, didn't realize Aretha did them best.
very classy and vibing album. nothing else to say
Rett og slett ett mesterverk
Loved this front to back!
Good blues throughout, with a couple enduring bangers to open and close the album. It’s great!
Loved it!
So much soul. coming from the heart, you're there with her as she sings
First song is great, rest of the background vocals need more work. The main vocals carried the whole album
Love Aretha! Amazing powerful vocals. And the album contains energy in the songs. A fun listen.
Lots of covers on this album, but man oh man, what a voice! I'm going to have to buy this one.
This is a great album by a great Artist. Not a bad song in the bunch. “Save Me” is a find…Batman, Green Hornet & Kato mentioned in the song! Perfect.
one of the best voices out there
What a legend. Starts with the classic RESPECT, Aretha's defining track... but she is so much more than just that banger. Respect has a shadow cast over it by track 2; Drowning in my Own Tears. Wow, what a voice, what a band, what a song. I'm writing this first thing in the morning at work, sipping a warm coffee on a particularly chilly summers morning and it's envoking emotion in me. It's her voice mainly, but all the other amazing layers, the groove, the band, the background singer - it almost makes me feel sick to think I didn't know this or any of these other songs on this album. Respect is probably the only Aretha song I had actually listen to - regret. It was beautiful background music whilst I got ready for the day of work. Do Right Woman, Do Right Man was a song that caught my ear whilst listening - a song that for its time was bold and brave, and now it's more important than ever. It's the sequal to Respect - mutual respect in a relationship, do right woman for your man, do right man for your woman and both do right for your family. It's a simple but beautiful message coming from the Queen of Soul who certainly faced her fair share of hardship in life, espcially in her youth. This album reflects the pain, the lessons, the love lost, the love gained, everything that Aretha has faced in her life up to this point. She was mistreated, but remained headstrong and maintained her values of family, respect for all peoples and civil rights throughout. Her over of a change is gonna come is AMAZING. She owns it to the point of wonder, did Sam Cooke write it for her? Love this album. It shows all of Aretha's good sides. Her values and her voice are the highlight of this incredible album. She is vulnerable and mournful throughout, yet at the same time isvindicated through songs like Respect and I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You - a song that battles with her sadness of the break up but is putting up a strong front, something her voice compliments like wine and cheese. Love love love love love. Soul like soul should be.
9/10, lo unico malo es que la versión de spotify incluye 3 temas en stereo sin rotularlos, así que se repiten en la escucha.
Aretha oversings but also changes the world. When she’s on she’s on. And right on. It’s hard to critique this but the over singing is what leads to the endless caterwauling on reality singing shows. This is a bit unfair. When she gets it right, it’s transcendent. 8 - 3 for over singing.
Another "easy 5" and very happy to hear an album like this. We all know her big role in music hisotry and big voice, and big hits, they are everywhere . Yet, perhaps the first time for me hearing a whole album by her. Each song packs a punch and her bold, loud, catchy groove is really energetic and upbeat. Incredible. If it moved you, listen to on of her final performances when she still packed the power in her voice, (very surpsing for age 73 ish) playing and singing at a charity gala - It is on youtube as "Aretha Franklin singing "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C. in 2016"
Now this is essential. Just sheer bliss from start to finish. Pure soul. Sure they are mostly cover versions, but the you didn’t write it argument with quality interpretation like this, is a weak argument ( and anyway looking at music nowadays with lots of hits written by committee and ghost writers). What a talent Aretha is, emotion, power and control, there is a reason she is seen as 1 of the best female vocalists ever, to think if she was starting today they would probably autotune the heart and soul out of her.
This was an awesome album all the way through, really soulful and will put this in regular rotation.
Aretha is a queen and we all know it, but I wasn’t really in the mood for this album when it came up. Then I put it on, and man did it make my mood immediately better. Classic.
I’ve never sat down and actually listened to a whole Aretha Franklin album, but man I am blown away. Everyone knows Respect and probably some of her Christmas songs, but to sit down and just let her voice carry you is honestly something else. She is truly a generational voice. While the writing is relevant for the time, being that the lyrics are simple, it doesn’t take away how incredible Aretha sounds. My first initial reaction to finishing this album was “man, I really need this on vinyl”. Heck of a voice and what an album.
Aretha is the queen.
Kinda feel weird dishing out two 5s for Aretha's albums in close succession mostly because "she just sounds good", but... she does really just sound so good that you're not focusing much on the songwriting, arrangement and production, though those elements certainly aren't weak here.
Queen.
Iconic Soul music awesome artist
God blessed her with the greatest voice ever!
Not perfect, but it's the queen.
Soulful greatness
What a queen
Such an amazing album. So many hits.
Un disco que comienza con Respect, su versión es la canónica y definitiva, ya se ha ganado la eternidad. Solo de esta canción se pueden hacer libros enteros. El resto del disco es otra colección de gemas del calibre de la titular I never loved a man the way i love you, Do right woman do right man, Save me a lomos del Gloria de los Them que es una version/adaptación del Help me de la King Curtis Orchestra donde tocó un desconocido aun Jimi Hendrix... Soul sureño de Muscle Shoals que le sentó como un guante a la voz y carácter de una Aretha que por fin encontró su identidad en el sello Atlantic. No hay un tema que baje del notable, y hay maravillas como Soul serenade o Rock Steady. Un disco imprescindible y el paso a previo a ese descomunal disco que fue Lady Soul. Publicó ese mismo año Arrives, de enorme calidad pero que entre uno y otro quedó menos reconocido. Otras obras editadas ese mismo año 1967: Sgt. Peppers y Magical Mistery Tour, Forever Changes y Da Capo, The Velvet Underground y White light/White head, Surrealistic Pillow,The Piper at the Gates of Dawn, The Who Sell Out, Days of Future Passed, Disraelí Gears, Bee Gees´ First, Younger Than Yesterday, Evolution y Butterfly, Safe as milk, Something Else, Scott, Bee Gees´ First (en realidad el segundo), Wild Honey, Sunshine Superman o Happy Together... así como debuts de ese mismo año fueron los de Jimi hendrix (además de Axis: Bold as love) , The Doors, Experience, Scott Walker, Pink Floyd, The Velvet Underground, y también aunque menores los de Van Morrison, Janis Joplin, Bowie, Electric Prunes o First Edition.
Amazing.
Very good
Unquestionably one of the greatest vocalists of the 20th century. Great album with some even greater songs. What could you possibly complain about?
Aretha's first record on Atlantic and it changed the trajectory of her career. Great record! Probably my favorite female singer
8/11/24 A good strong album.
Yeah, this is an amazing album. Were you expecting me to say something else? Aretha Franklin is arguably the most iconic female singer that I hadn't yet gotten an album from up to this point. This album is one of her most iconic, and for good reason. This album is excellent. Aretha's singing is just phenomenal. I totally get why people love her singing so much. The sound on here is strong too. It has a perfect blend of jazz and soul that I really like. The songs are great as well. While she did help write a few of these songs, most of them are covers. However, these covers are quite transformative in my eyes, both in terms of the sound and the perspective. The obvious example is in the absolutely legendary opener, "Respect." I like the original Otis Redding version. I did give the album it was on a 5 after all. However, this is basically Aretha's song at this point. Her slight lyrical changes and overall performance change the song from being yet another song about a man wanting a sexual relationship with a woman to the strong female empowerment piece it's seen as today. That is the beauty of this album. While no other songs live up to the example set up by "Respect," this album's other songs are still great and have a similar core to them. Overall, I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You is a strong album that has stood the test of time and left a cultural legacy that most albums can only dream of having. While there are albums I like more, I can not deny this album the praise it deserves. Also it's like the perfect length so it has that going for it as well. Light 5/5.
Soul music. The instruments are pretty basic, but that’s okay. The focus is on Aretha Franklin’s voice, and rightfully so.
Soul queen
Fabulous voice!
Came to this
a classic album - best voice
R E S P E C T
Incredible album! Loved every single song. Added to the list of Vinyls I HAVE to get
She is so incredible!
While I’ve heard Aretha’s most well known songs, I’ve never sat and listened to one of her albums all the way through. What was I thinking? This album was amazing. There’s a reason Aretha is the Queen. Her vocals are impeccable and the emotion and connection she draws with the listener is everything I want in music. This album felt like a Saturday night in front of the fire with a glass of good wine. 5/5 for me.
What a great way to start a Monday! It's not the first time that Aretha Franklin has appeared here. First Chains Of Fools and now Never Loved a Man. There is nothing more that can be said on this subject. She's the best of soul, she's the greatest singer of all time! The only comment that I will, in fact, repeat, will be the old saying that says that Aretha between the second half of the 60s and the first half of the 70s was at her peak... and my comment about that is the following: When hell wasn't she at her peak?
Unbelievable talent.
Man this lady can sing!
Day288 - a true legend and worthy of her queen of soul title
What’s there to say? What a beautiful album. Bow down to the Queen! God Bless Aretha Franklin, the One and Only!
The Queen of Soul at the height of her power and the pinnaacle of the genre.
The Good: the Queen of Soul The Bad: the album I was directed to on Spotify had the first 3 songs of the album repeated at the end of the album The Ugly: it was only 3 songs, should have been all songs... Killer album of killer songs sung by a killer voice. 5*
Respect automatically knocks it up to 5. Areatha is amazing throughout but some of the material she has to work with is a bit weak
great album
Just sublime soul lady doing sublime soul lady shit, a tremendous cover of "Respect" that meant she took ownership of the song, the title song is passion unbridled, and "Do Right Woman, Do Right Man" is a timeless classic. The start of a run that has rarely been equalled in music; this album followed by Aretha Arrives in 1968, then Lady Soul, then Aretha Now, then the Aretha Live in Paris live album in 1969. 18 or so months of solid gold bangers.
5/5
There's a reason she's called "The Queen of Soul," her vocals on this album are phenomenal! From "Respect" to "A Change is Gonna Come," each song pulls you in from deep within and beckons you to feel what it's say and playing. Beautiful instrumentation, production was amazing, I'd give this a 10/10
Opening with Respect is so c*nty. Also sis can SING
Finally!
Favorite Tracks: A Change Is Gonna Come Respect I Never Loved A Man
One of the best albums I've ever heard. I get the hype
It is rare, by which I mean you have to be listening to Aretha, that a vocal can knock the wind out of you and leave you breathless. From the regal pomp and sheen of RESPECT to the feeling and power of her (seminal) version of A Change Is Going To Come, she's the ultimate vocalist with the songs to match.
Loved it!!
Too many bangers to give this album less than five. Will come back to next time I need to hear some Aretha.
Yes they are just covers, but the range of Franklin's voice... I think that's all I have to say
She has such a beautiful voice, that is so effortless and yet passionate and emotional. So much love and pain in the album, truly a classic and beautiful album.
This album is excellent. The queen of soul definitely brings the soul. The whole thing is pretty flawless. Easy 5!
estoy poniendo muy alto todos. Serán realmente buenos o me estoy condicionando?
This was absolutely flawless. I had a backlog of albums to listen to for this project and was "saving" this one because I just knew that this was going to be great. And it was! My favourite track was the title track, but of course "Respect" is a classic, iconic song for a reason.
Perfection.