Reviews (page 4 of 13)
Much more consistent album than I Never Loved a Man The Way I Loved You. Damn good jams start to finish.
Wow.
The voice! But also a great band and backup singers. Nice to hear more than just the big hits. Gospel, soul, and R& B cornerstone
Aretha Franklin is a national treasure and is so incredibly talented. It's a joy to listen to her music. This album was really good and is one of the best from the genre.
Soulful album by one of the best vocalists in history.
The Good: The Queen of Soul The Bad: The album being called Lady… thus confusing us… The Ugly: This being the second album of Mrs Franklin where several tracks are repeated on the album, without it making sense… Some classic tunes here, but one of the greatest voices of the 20th century. I really have nothing to say… just listen to the album and enjoy, I guess! 4 1/2* upgraded for balance
A delight from start to finish. Natural Woman and Chain of Fools are the big stars, but Good to Me as I Am to You knocked me sideways — she’s serving soul on a silver platter. She's a goddess, a girl boss, a superhero in heels. And Groovin’? It’s so smooth it could probably broker world peace.
God i wish every fucking album was 30m and sounded like this (jk)… but for real love at first listen
Very emotional album, didn’t expect to like it as much I did but the honesty and age of this song gove it so much power
Ontem e hoje, back to back soul. Obrigado 1001 albums generator ponto com! Isso é música. Quando penso música, eu penso nisso. Uma cantora infinitamente talentosa com uma voz de ouro e veludo. Uma banda fantástica com composições maravilhosas e delicadas. Um disco coeso, que não desperdiça sequer um segundo, que não desperdiça o plástico no qual foi preensado. Isso é música. Um LP de respeito. A regra é simples. O disco não tem defeitos, então não tem outra nota que posso o dar. Ain't No Way... que arranjo maravilhoso. A melhor música desse disco e uma das melhores que ouvi esse ano. 5/5
Fantastic
Absolutely wonderful, Aretha Franklin has the most incredible voice.
Hit after hit with effortless vocals from the queen of soul. Flawless
Magnífico
Such a powerful voice and album. Listened to the same songs again from the extended edition because it was so good
The GOAT!
Damn she actually was the Queen of Soul.
Perfect for a Friday! All hits, no misses on this album.
Wonderful
This is peak r&b Aretha, her third Atlantic soul album after her run of relatively unsuccessful Columbia jazz standards records. She’s really hit her stride now. Like so many soul singers before her, a train in the Pentecostal church proves an amazing academy in improvisation and melisma with spirit. Along with Aretha Now later the same year it’s a contender for her best album. She makes the Carole King/Gerry Goffin/Jerry Wexler song Natural Woman sound like it was written for her. There are a couple of songs on here she co-wrote and they’re very good. She was already on top form by this point in her career; now that she’s found her genre, she’s unstoppable. Lady Soul indeed!
Absolutely stunning vocals, nothing more to be said there, loved hearing the full album since I’m only really familiar with her hits. Floored by aint no way, the fullness of Aretha’s voice with the delicate opera vocals of Cissy is pure perfection
Just a great album. Unrivaled vocal talent, excellent songwriting, and a stellar band behind her. Nothing boring, though Chain of Fools and A Natural Woman are the singles off the album for a reason. Deserves the accolades.
Unbelievable. “People Get Ready”, “Groovin’”, “Ain’t No Way”, stood out above the others and the others were phenomenal. I haven’t really listened to Aretha in a while and it was a stark reminder of the extreme talent and personality and soul that went into this record.
30 minutes of just absolutely gorgeous soul tunes. More than one stone cold classic song on here.
one of the greatest albums of all time
The only downside is the very short running time. I think this album really shows her incredible vocal range. She conveys different emotions at different times in every single track. The music itself is one of the best examples of the Muscle Shoals sound.
Magnificent
everything about this is amazing - singing, songs, production and band. While Aretha's vocals are the story here, the bass playing is particularly excellent.
Again, no need to listen to this. Great album with amazing image. Love it to bits
Sensational, funky, heartfelt.
Not my go to genre of music, but relaxing and soothing none the less. Guitar sounded warm and I found myself mesmerized by his voice. Felt like i was near a campfire or on a porch on a summer night and my grandpa is singing to me
Aretha's voice is not of this world. It exists on a higher plane, we're just blessed that we get to hear it.
Several timeless hits here from the Queen of R&B. Rounding up.. 4.5/5
This album demands R-E-S-P-E-C-T!
All in on this one. Several classics, a bunch of lesser known songs that go hard… I don’t know what else Aretha can give you on this one.
God dammit she is great! Not sure I can say anything that hasn’t been said but I loved this. Of course she can sing and this felt so authentic…hit all the right moments. Baby baby sweet baby.
Cathartic getting this day after Joni Mitchell. If Joni was the vasectomy, Aretha is the ice pack on your nuts. 4.25/5
absolute banger of an album. aretha can sing and has one of the most iconic voices of all time. incredible bass lines.
An iconic genius at her absolute peak. Classic after classic after classic. My only regret is that she didn't record it at Stax.
Une voix divine, qui ne pèche jamais par excès. Inégalée
Such powerful soul music - well-known songs include Chain of Fools and (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman. A variety of rich and dark songs mixed with faster and lighter melodies - all with Aretha's powerful voice. Wonderful album.
Went in thinking I wasn't really in the mood for Aretha Franklin but then listened to 'Aretha Now' right after this one.
It's crazy to me that music from 1968 can still hold up today. Aretha Franklin is truly one-of-a-kind. Literally every song on this album is awesome. Even "Niki Hoeky" which is the least listened to song from this album is still fantastic. Subjectively, would I return to this album? Maybe? Maybe not? It's not something I'd listen to every day. Objectively, it meets all the criteria of being a 5 star album. Every song is good, great stand-out singles, highly influential, there's really nothing wrong with this album.
sooo cool
What strikes the most every time I listen to this album, well after admiring Aretha’s other worldly vocal performances of course, is how impressive the collection of session players, songwriters and production team is. At this point everyone knew what Aretha could do, the job was to provide the best situation for her to transcend to a level of vocal superiority that few will ever hold a candle to. The team knew the assignment and did the damn thing! This is an easy 5.
- ..... 5 just for "Chain of Fools" .... -
A classic, I grew up listening to this album in my grandmas house every dang day.
Aretha cookin’ 🔥
5/5. Although "Never Loved..." is more popular, I do believe this is overall a better and more soulful album. She feels confident here and with a solid backing vocal chorus and band, you can tell she is in her own. Plus the song selection here is shorter but she is allowed to go all out on each one, so the longer ones feel that much more full. I think this is a pretty perfect album, short and sweet with more soul than it should be allowed to contain. Best Song: Chain of Fools, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, People Get Ready
Incomparable vocalist RIP
Effortless groove and energy by the Queen of Soul. From the high charting classics to the deep cuts, this album is about as perfect as you can get. Aretha's performance is sublime. Perfect for a sunny Sunday Morning. Best Tracks: - Chain Of Fools - Niki Hoeky - (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman Worst Tracks: N/A Rating: 9.5/10
Das zwölfte Studioalbum der amerikanischen Sängerin Aretha Franklin. Es wurde unter der Produktion von Jerry Wexler und anderen namhaften Produzenten im renommierten Atlantic Recording Studio in New York aufgenommen. Das Album stellt eine Mischung aus Soul, R&B und Pop dar und zeigt Franklin als eine der führenden Stimmen des Genres. Das Werk enthält mehrere herausragende Songs, darunter „(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman“, das von Carole King und Gerry Goffin geschrieben wurde und zu einem ihrer bekanntesten Titel gehört. Weitere bemerkenswerte Tracks sind „Chain of Fools“ und „Since You’ve Been Gone“. Diese Lieder zeichnen sich durch ihre emotionale Tiefe und die außergewöhnliche Gesangstechnik Franklins aus. Die Sängerin wurde in Memphis, Tennessee, geboren und wuchs in Detroit auf. Ihr Einfluss auf die Soulmusik und ihre Rolle als Symbol für die afroamerikanische Bürgerrechtsbewegung machen sie zu einer Schlüsselfigur in der Musikgeschichte. Mit diesem Album festigte sie ihren Ruf als „Queen of Soul“. Aretha Lady Soul ist ein gelungenes Beispiel für Aretha Franklins Talent und Einfluss im Soul- und R&B-Bereich. Die Produktion und ihre Gesangsleistungen zeichnen sich durch Authentizität und Kraft aus. Ein Album, das sowohl musikalisch als auch kulturell von Bedeutung ist.
Take me to church Aretha! What a voice! So much soul. And that backing band is on fire. The absolute definition of musical goodness. This is music that moves you. She's an undeniable force. This record is perfect top to bottom
60’s soul music always goes down smooth, and Aretha is one of the best to ever do it. The only song I would consider taking a star off for is “Niki Hoeky” but everything else is so damn good I couldn’t possibly! Her version of “Natural Woman” is one of the finest songs ever recorded.
One of the best soul singers to do it, backed by the Swampers. What else can you say? Fantastic song choices, interesting rearrangements, bitchin backing vocals, and a rhythm section that ain’t fooling around. Plus Aretha. I would gladly give Andy Phelps’s left nut to be hanging around at FAME or Stax during this period. The amount of talent that walked into those studios was just unmatched.
It's Aretha, need I say more?
I really loved this album! Chain of Fools was a really strong opening song, in my opinion. Found myself humming the song throughout the day after listening to it. The rest of the music is also really good, ranging from toe-tappingly groovy to slow and soulful. Also Aretha Franklin has a great singing voice.
Finally a female artist! And the Queen of Soul no less!
Love this, glad to finally have an opportunity to listen to Aretha properly. She’s one of the most famously great vocalists ever, so no surprise that this rocks. That said, the actual arrangement of each song is what stands out to me here - including a guest appearance by the reason for Rock Against Racism on guitar for one track. Huge fan. Three songs added to my playlist, five added to the 1001 playlist.
Best female vocalist of all time. Very respectful nod to Whitney. This album is definitely in the top 100 all time. Maybe top 50. Aretha at her best. Easy 5 ⭐️
I feel like I'm getting easy handing out these 5s but how can I deny the ultimate queen? Absolutely flawless voice. Jamming music that makes you want to dance.
Aretha showing us in every track why she alone is crowned the Queen of Soul. 4.5/5
Chain of Fools - 9/10 Money Won't Change you - 9.5/10 People Get Ready - 10/10 Niki Hoeky - 10/10 (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman - 10/10 (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You 've Been Gone - 9/10 Good to Me as I Am to You - 8/10 Come Back Baby - 10/10 Groovin' - 9/10 Ain't No Way - 10/10 Overall - 85.5/100
Best singer of all time
I love Aretha! Her voice is just incredible, and the songs sound great. The absolute queen of soul music, and this album is my favourite.
Soul of Soul
so good. rich and bright. perfect morning album
Queen
Me da alegria. Me relaja.
I don't think she ever did a bad album - certainly not in the early days. This is another belter.
My love...
A generational talent on full display. Aretha is a voice that i doubt we will ever see the likes of again, and this is 50 yrs later. Shits crazy
Beautiful soul record with great song writing and s soaring vocals
soul on toppp
All bangers
Aretha is a Queen of the first order. A voice and passion unmatched. An album full of indelible classics.
Stone-cold classic. Ageless.
Another artist I wish I could have seen in her prime. A absolute legend. This album too is hit after hit. (18 known/29 new)
Goosebumps.
Wonderful. That's all I have to say.
Sensationally good.
What a voice! Magical!
Oh man, I knew I’d like this album - it’s Aretha Franklin, for crying out loud - but when Groovin’ rolled around it was a new game. I love that song and never knew she did that song. Everything she did was gold. Truly deserves the title Lady Soul.
fantastic, ain’t no way is an all time closer
Just excellent
Lady Soul is right! Easy 5 for Aretha. As you would guess she hits it out of the park on this one. Just good deep hitting soul music by one of the best to do it. Chain of Fools starts strong and keeps the momentum going.
Pretty easy 5. Aretha Franklin is the Queen of Soul for a reason (although at this point I guess she was just Lady Soul. The Queen hadn’t passed away yet). Just great song after great song. “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” really struck me this time. Just a gorgeous performance. How can you ask for anything more? I guess my only critique is it doesn’t gel as an album but as a collection of great songs it doesn’t miss
I need more than 5 stars for this one. 500 stars maybe.
Personal enjoyment: 5 Relevance to this list: 5
Lady Aretha - what else
chain of fools- 7 or 8 money wont change you- 6 or 7 people get ready- 6 niki hoeky- 8 or 9 natural woman- 7 or 8 since youve been gone- 7 good to me as i am to you- 8 come back baby- 6 or 7 groovin- 8 aint no way- 8 thank you aretha
Powerful and beautiful album. Owned this record for 30+ years and remains one my favorites.
Queen! The queen of soul. A million stars
My first perfect 5 award. Soooooooo good. Amazing listen from start to finish. Adding this to my permanent collection and will be revisiting often.
This is the 28th album I’m rating. I really only know Respect but that song wasn’t that bad so this is probably pretty good. I’m glad this is short because those albums over an hour long are getting really tiring. Chain of Fools - Adding to my Playlist. This is a fantastic song. I can see why she is so well liked. Money Won’t Change You - Adding to my Playlist. Aretha Franklin is a fantastic singer. People Get Ready - Not Adding to my Playlist. I’m starting to get bored. Niki Hoeky - Adding to my Playlist. This isn’t boring. Best song so far. (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman - Adding to my Playlist. That singing is really good. (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You’ve Been Gone - Adding to my Playlist. A part of me was wishing this album was worse because I feel like I’ve been on too good of a streak. Good to Me as I’ve Been You - Not Adding to my Playlist. The singing is a bit annoying. Come Back Baby - Not Adding to my Playlist. I feel like at a certain point everything begins to sound the same. Groovin’ - Adding to my Playlist. This sounds a little basic but it’s pretty groovy. Ain’t No Way - Not Adding to my Playlist. I’m sorry but I can’t add this it’s just too basic. All in all I liked 6/10 songs. Aretha Franklin is pretty good and I’ve had a stretch of some pretty great albums so far.
Soul powerhouse, what else can I say? Aretha Franklin's voice paired with a selection of great soul cuts, from an equally great lineup of writers.
So that's where that 'shame shame shame' joke from American Dad came from People Get Ready goes crazy. Something about this era of music makes short songs feel longer. I assume it's because there's much more going on dynamically than modern pop
If you do not know what soul is, this is definitely a defining album. Every song sang not only beautifully but with emotion. You don't just hear this album, you FEEL it.
Lady Soul indeed. Holy smoke.
Great, album. Great vocalist. Just... top notch.
I mean, they don’t call her the queen of soul for nothin’.
I knew, from the start, this was gonna be a banger. The few songs I knew prior to this blew me away, and I'm glad the rest of the LP is great as well.
I enjoyed this one! Lots of classic tunes that I didn't know came from this album.
Just gorgeous.
There are reasons Aretha is called the “Queen of Soul” and this is one of them. Beautiful album.
That's a powerful voice for a 25 year old. She also arranged and played the piano - often overlooked.
Such a joy to listen to Aretha
Aretha..Atlantic...Muscle Shoals... this album is a monster.
PURE SOUL. The "Queen"
I've never listened to this before and I don't know why. It's easily 5*, couldn't possibly rate it any lower. Fav tracks: A Natural Woman, Chain of Fools, Groovin'
Just a fantastic album from beginning to end.
I was just thinking we need more Aretha on this list. Hell yeah. Love her.
Feels wrong to give anything less than a 5*
Exceptional album, classic songs and great sound from a legend, I’ll put this one in repeat!
The queen herself, timeless classic with Chain of Fools
Y'know, as much as a part of me would hate to have this review be just "It's Aretha Franklin" without much further explanation beyond that... I mean, it **is** Aretha Franklin. Most people would completely understand the 5/5 I'm giving this album from just that alone. Her voice? One of the most amazing and powerful in all of soul music, whether it's on a slow ballad or one of the harder tunes. The accompaniment, from the instrumentals to the backing vocals? Always a pinpoint and perfect compliment, helping Aretha's voice soar even higher than normal. It's just a marvel to behold; simply incredible. I find it interesting that on the 2012 Rolling Stone 500, this is so close to the other Aretha album my group has looked at, I NEVER LOVED A MAN THE WAY I LOVED YOU. In fact, LADY SOUL is **one spot** below I NEVER LOVED A MAN: 85 and 84 respectfully. Like, to ears in 2012, they were just that close in quality, that I figure the big reason why I NEVER LOVED A MAN got to be higher was because it had "Respect" — and it's hard to compete with that. And in fact, it's so hard that in 2020, while LADY SOUL rose to 75, I NEVER LOVED A MAN went all the way up to **13**. Nearly a top 10, eight years later. It's nuts. And to my ears, I don't mean this as a negative to either album, but I feel like it made more sense when they were closer together. Maybe my ears are just that ignorant, but I really can't hear a difference between them. They're both just that good. Force me to pick between them, though, and it could be recency bias here, but I'd honestly pick LADY SOUL over I NEVER LOVED A MAN. It's just so smooth, and at only 28 minutes, it's no big commitment whatsoever. (As if 32 minutes is really that much more, but y'know what I mean.) But, really, it's no competition; they're both 5's. Heck, I say actively don't choose. Just listen to them both and bask in how amazing of a singer Aretha was. Do yourself that favor, come on.
There's a reason why Miss Franklin has the Queen of Soul moniker, and it just oozes in these songs, because that voice is simply just magical. Solid 5 Stars.
I’m at a 10. I’ll keep this short – I’m not gonna write a whole soliloquy & I’m not gonna use every adjective in the book, because there’s only 3 words I need to describe this album: it’s Aretha Franklin. When we got I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You a while back, I mentioned that the only other Aretha Franklin track I really knew about was “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” and I didn’t realize that track was on this album until I peeked at the track list. I also realized that I’m a liar, because Chain of Fools is also on here, and I adore that track. Going into this, I figured those songs, by themselves, would carry this to a 4, bare minimum – the rest of this album is just unbelievably good, and an even better showcase of her vocal power. Every single track is stellar. This album is simply driven by her ability to pull the most emotion out of her material, in a way that makes the listener feel it in the same way that she’s delivering it, and she does it perfectly, beautifully, and brilliantly. It is a feeling that simply cannot be understood unless you listen to her voice & the instrumentation that anchors it. Even at just 29 minutes, this is such a rich & fulfilling album, and I’m simply left stunned & wanting more. Go listen to it -- it's a 10.
Divine.
Bitch, please. Ain't nobody like Aretha!
What a queen. She's so incredibly good. There really isn't much to say about this album at all, other than, she's among the best to ever do it, and this is her at the height of her powers. Favorite Song(s): People Get Ready, (Your Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
Just
No notes.
Incredible. Aretha Franklin really is the ultimate diva. This album is jam packed with sensational vocals. I can only imagine what it must have been like to witness her live. Jam packed with hits and soul and music that gets your foot tapping and keeps it like that for the entire album. I need to own this album
Don't listen to Marco, you rock Aretha.
So great! Solid vocal performance plus great backup vocals
Great album.. I don’t think I’ve ever just listened to the whole thing
i‘ve got flu, so this album in combination with ginger/lemon tea, made me feel much better.
That was brilliant. Starting an album with Chain of Fools like that is outrageous. What a great January pick-me-up on a cold morning. Easily 5 stars. Will purchase for my CD collection.
Queen of soul
FANTASTIC, might be 9/10 or 10/10 and Lyrics still hold up in addition to her voice!
Aveva una voce bellissima.
La donna più potente dell'universo
Unbelievable. ‘Nuff said.
To była królowa. Głos nie z tej ziemi. Nie przepadam za tym gatunkiem, ale nawet zatwardziały przeciwnik zmięknie przy tych utworach. Piękne aranżacje, cudowny głos i coś, co zostanie z nami na zawsze. 9/10
So good
We had the house rocking to this yesterday, and it felt like we were preaching to the choir in the front row of the first church of Aretha.
Powerful voice, but the songs themselves are also great (Adele, take notes).
Ah, the Queen of Soul. I don't think I've ever heard a bad song from Aretha, and this album just amplifies that thought. It's truly great. Her voice, the compositions, and the overall sound are all perfect
Classic voice. Great album
Rich. Rich richness. Ain't No Way...I can't even. Would be number one except for the short number of tracks / repeats. Wow.
Amazing
I want to fight anyone who thinks this is anything less than a five. Come ON.
I have it five out of R-E-S-P-E-C-T but I don’t enjoy 60s R&B and am very tired of the hits off this album.
Absolutely incredible
Perfect, no notes. 10/10
Excellent! Easy 5 stars. Excellent vocals and fun instrumentals. '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman' was my fave.
Tremendo disco. El soul es el precursor de lo que luego los blancos llamarían rock, y se nota bastante tiene mucha potencia este disco, es muy adaptado al oído de hoy en día, a diferencia del de Janis Joplin que es una tortura. Me encantó, tiene temas muy buenos.
El disco de Soul perfecto. Desde la apertura gloriosa de un clásico como Chains of Fools hasta ese maravilloso final que es Ain't No Way (compuesto por su hermana que le hace un coro majestuoso). Por el medio versiones estupendas como People Get Ready, Groovin o (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, esta última se puede decir que es la mejor versión del tema. (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You've Been Gone es una joya, no muy conocida pero que tiene una calidad imparable. Es uno de lo discos de cabecera de cualquier interprete del Soul. Imprescindible.
Amazing to listen to a full album
Top drawer
A truly one of a kind voice. The production hasn't aged a day. It's lush. it's grand, it's groovy, it's comforting. Wonderful
Aretha has one of the most distinctive and individual voices in music. And she also plays piano and saxophone. This album contains the classics “Chain of Fools”, “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and “Sweet Sweet Baby (Since You’ve Been Gone)” and excellent versions of “People Get Ready” and “Groovin’”. The remainder of the album sparkles almost as brightly, Aretha’s stunning gospel vocals raising even lesser numbers close to the heights of the hits. Such was her talent that there was no such thing as filler on Aretha’s late ‘60s and early ‘70s albums.
Love her work.
Absolutely loved this! Only issue I had was walking into work feeling like a natural black woman in chains, at least I think that’s what she was singing about. In all seriousness, I have a real affinity with this era of music. I grew up listening to a lot of these songs thanks to my mom. Chain of fools, A Natural Woman and Aint No Way are 3 classics but People Get Ready is one of my favourite songs of all time. Admittedly I prefer the original and I was in horror when I covered that Bob Dylan had the sheer audacity to cover the song, if I die having never heard that version I will count that as a successful life. Good to Me as I Am to You starts so beautifully and only gets better when Aretha starts to belt and shows why she is the queen of soul. I appreciated the sprinkling of more upbeat “poppy” songs like Come Back Baby and Niki Hoeky intertwined with soul and talent across the rest of the album. I struggle to listen to aretha without being in awe of her power as a vocalist mixed with such soothing tones in her softer register
So gut kann R&B sein!
I mean, she’s the queen, what other score could you give her?
It’s just nice to break out of man rock sometimes innit. Classic, classy and timeless. Other than Nina Simone, so far no vocal performance touches this, and doubt will on this list. Some bangin tunes too. Fantastic album.
very funky and lovely with many favorites.
I put this in moments before getting on absolutely packed train. I was having a bad time, but then I just focused a bit more on the music and how much Aretha's performing prowess comes through. Even stood in that carriage sandwiched between people dressed in our winter coats like some kind of human sardine, I was still made to feel like a natural woman. (nb I am a man)
Turn it up, and drink it in. Aha, Aretha covered the Young Rascals! I never knew.
An amazing singer and performer at the top of her game, the best session players in the world at that time who had the sound of the moment, solid songwriting and choices of covers, and the genius to limit your album to ten songs and thirty minutes. Everything about this album was done right. An absolute masterpiece.
Zarąbiste, 5/5. Na bardzo miłe wieczorki wspólne romantyczne
SO GOOD!!!!!!
Amazing album, I dare anyone listening to this to try keeping for foot from tappin or your hips from groovin. Add me to the chain
It's been a while. As good as I remember.
I had other albums by Mrs. Franklin. But this to me is the epitome!
Good
Impossible to have a bad word to say about this soul masterclass.
A really great record filled with a mix of soulful and funky tracks. The power and energy of Aretha’s voice really shines in her more soulful songs and the instrumentals are top-notch throughout the record. From the funky bassline and upbeat drums of “Come Back Baby” to the uplifting accompaniment of strings, horns, and piano in “Ain’t No Way” and “A Natural Woman”. Aretha is truly one of the GOATs of Soul music. Favorite Track: (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman
Strangely enough I was given another female singer's album from the late 60s, Dusty Springfield's in Memphis right before this one. I enjoyed it but it didn't blow me away. This album on the other hand is a masterpiece. It only took a few songs in before I realized what I was listening to was absolutely the type of work that should appear on a list like this. There's not a bad track on it, and a great variety from more soulful tracks to funk to slow jams. Aretha Franklin can really, really sing and she goes all out on this one. Truly a classic.
A great album that probably should be in more lists but doesn’t. I wonder if it is because the album cover isn’t iconic? It feels like it was thrown together without any thought.
A masterpiece of soul. The standard for which every soul singer should set for themselves. This is outstanding. 5/5.
absolute slapper
Don't normally listen to this type of songs but this is just so entertaining and so beautiful! Her voice is such a bless. Simple good music. 4.5/5. My favorites are Ain't No Way and People Get Ready.
Incredible - excellent from start to finish.
This is going to be short: it’s friggen Aretha Franklin being the Queen of Soul. This album is a testament to her raw talent. You don’t listen to it, you feel it. Key tracks for me (all) are especially Chain of Fools and Since You’ve Been Gone, particularly because I love Tommy Cogbill’s bass playing.
What's there to say, enjoyable and classic!
GOAT
So beautiful
less poppy then the earlier album i rolled from her, goes further on the harder rnb/deep soul edge to rly amazing results i think even those who werent into that other album could appreciate. just extremely vivacious and lively music, barnburners all over the place, even in its slower ballady moments it kinda makes me sweat just from the grit and weight. been acquainting and re-acquainting with a lot of legendary soul vocalists over the course of this project, and while nina simone is prob my personal fave there's nobody who quite matches aretha's Bright Belting , feels like the sun
Yeah, this is the good stuff.
Engage all 25,000 in-ear nerve-endings. Listen to it, savor it, soar it up. The high notes, that energy. Pure soul. Angelic. Mmm. That's a ten!
Queen of soul!
Soul is in everyone. The feeling we get when we listen to soul music, is what makes us, US.
Amazing vocals gorgeous instrumentals and feminist lyrics. It's hard to not love Aretha Franklin 9.1/10
Day 49 - No idea when this album was generated lmao In Aretha Franklin we trust o7! 5/5
You can just list listen to an "average" track on this and it just slays everything you've listened to in the previous week. Joyous.
Aretha Franklin has the greatest singing voice of all time. Combine that with some beautiful instruments, her high energy, and deep lyrics, you have one fantastic album. I thoroughly enjoy every song. Favorite Song: "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman".
Classic 5/5
Come on it’s the Queen of Soul, when Rock and R/B were fighting for the top of the charts. FYI, just learned today that Whitney Houston’s mother did the incredibly high backing vocals on Ain’t No Way, she passed today at 99, RIP Cissy Houston.
Some modern day singers couldn’t hold a candle to this voice and no tricks to help out with the sound. Super.
Amazing.
Great album. Aretha is so smooth, yet powerful in delivery. Chain of Fools so so so good.
no finess smh smh
Just the best
I mean, duh!
I heard someone say once that Lady Soul is Aretha Franklin in her prime... and I was like, and when the hell wasn't she in her prime? Easy 5 stars for the greatest singer of all time!
Aretha my goat. Thoroughly enjoyed the entire album.
incredible! her voice is amazing and the songs were fun.
What do you get when you combine virtuoustic vocals, positive and hopeful messages with in songwriting, iconic instrumentation, and expansive genre blending? You get Aretha Franklin in Lady Soul, an absolutely dynamite motown rythmn and soul, r&b, and gospel pop album. My momma loved this album, so did my grandma, and I continue 3 generations of musical appreciation for the Lady GOAT!
Yes
I will never not enjoy listening to this great woman.
It was great! I found 2 songs that I absolutely love from the album.
Aretha is Queen.
Very strong start with Chain of fools. Unsurprisingly very soulful. Powerful. One you really want to turn up and belt in the car. Every song has incredible energy. Also deeply cool. Aretha is a force of nature. Incredible intensity. Would put this on at a party and everyone would love it.
Praise lawd
All the tits 66 wahaeeeyy
Ha would be rated more if possible.
This is a new favorite
Wonderful
Good for corn walkki g
Queen of soul
the 12th studio album by Aretha Franklin hit a peak of number 2 on the Billboard Top 200 Pop Charts and stayed at number 1 on the R&B charts for 16 weeks straight. It's frequently ranked in the Top 100 albums by major publications and it's easy to see why. The smooth jazz-influenced R&B instrumentation perfectly highlights Franklins powerful and complex voice. Perfect album.
I love this album! It’s so great!!
All I could think while listening this was: what a voice and what an incredible collection of songs. This belongs with the best things I’ve heard so far doing this.
Goddess
Slay Queen. 5
This album makes me feel like a natural woman.
When this album came up, I was kind of frustrated. I've been craving something more modern and within the last 20 maybe 30 years. But I put it on instead of waiting for another song the next day. This record was great! I hate that I was hesitant. Every song is sung with perfection. Aretha Franklin's voice is so incredible. The control that she has is unparalleled. No wonder why she is considered one of the greats. I enjoyed her last album. But I think I liked this one more. I am looking forward to more of her.
They don’t call her the Queen of Soul for nothing. Some genres are made by their vocalists, and you can’t sing soul if you can’t sing. Aretha can sing.
They don't call her the Queen of Soul for nothing. Her voice is melodious and hits every right note. The songs are refreshing, with each one sounding different, yet still retaining her signature sound. There's nothing to complain about here.
God bless Aretha!
When Aretha sings, the world stops and listens.
A perfect gem. Have to give it 5 stars on the strength of Aretha Franklin's voice alone. So much excellence compacted into 30 minutes. This is the music every Soul/R & B artist forever after was trying to be (with a couple exceptions obviously, Stevie Wonder among them). Such a classic, unbelievably well executed, deserving of its accolades.
Did anyone know this lady can SING?
Classic Motown style appropriates the groovy rock sounds of the psychedelic 60s for a powerful high energy backing band supporting the virtuoso of virtuoso vocal performances.
Wow!
It just doesn’t get any better! 🩷🩷
The Queen. That's all you need to know.
Aretha at her best. The band adds just enough to give the melody and enhance her vocals. She was blessed with an incredible voice and we are lucky to have heard it.
The absolute GOAT of soul music.
Great album
This is one of those albums that I don't understand how it could be anything other than a 5. Everything about it is top notch.
Amazing voice - brillant music
Classic soul album, one of the best.
Still top notch over the years.
Timeless classic
Wow! This is great. This album feels like a gold standard a few different ways.
Geez, another perfect record! There’s no denying the power of Ms. Franklin’s voice. And the songwriting here is top shelf R&B songwriting, Natural Woman, Chain of Fools and even the lesser known ones are unimpeachable. Definitely belongs on this list.
I’ve always been a big Aretha fan. This is an easy 5, and would probably come in the top 3 if I were to rank her albums. My favorite album of hers is “I Never Loved a Man…”
Mashing 5 stars as hard as I possibly can. May sneak into my top 5 in this project so far. Absolutely amazing.
iconic, genre defining. Very good!
One of the essentials of Aretha Franklin, between this and I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, but I reckon this is her best work and you won't find a better soul album from the 1960's. There's not a single song on this album that I even remotely dislike, it was a pleasure from start to finish. With classics like Good to Me as I Am to You, Ain't No Way and CHAIN OF MOTHERFUCKIN FOOLS. People Get Ready is probably a standout for me, that song is special and I adore it - though it reminds me of Changes by Charles Bradley vaguely. Easy 5 - if you don't like this album idk what to tell you man you're either a contrarian fuckwit, a racist, or your music taste just fucking sucks.
If every white boy was forced to listen to this album racism would not exist. I have been walking around the house singing these certified ear worms all day. There are no bad songs on this album. I swear allegiance to Aretha Franklin. Let any who besmirch the name of the Queen of Soul (PBUH) suffer before my blade!
Not much to say here, sorry for the short review. I think it's a Masterpiece, my top 2 highlights are Ain't No Way and (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman. 10/10 Fav tracks - All -1 Least Fav - Groovin'
The fact that Eric Clapton played guitar on this album and is still racist is proof that God has a sense of humour. Rolling Stone has listed Aretha Franklin as the greatest singer of all time on multiple occasions and they are 100% right. 'Despite' the fact that she was an alcoholic and a chain smoker she had a voice of solid gold just leading to proof that partyphobic movements like anti-smoking and anti-drinking laws are stifling an entire generation of future soul singers. No two ways about it, this album is perfect. Back to back hits, no song misses in any department at all. There's nothing negative I can say about this album at all except that it is a crime that in my 27 years I had not heard 'Ain't No Way' before.
Not my thing most days, but there really isn’t a bad song on here.
Yeah, damn, that's a helluva album. Other than the hits, I'd never heard it before. Boy was I missing out. Obviously her vocals are stellar. But the musicianship, arrangements, and material are incredible as well. (Loved the background singers, too!) I particularly enjoyed Franklin's take on James Brown's Money Won't Change You, but everything was top-notch. Clearly I need to listen to more Aretha albums.
To hear Aretha Franklin with fresh ears reminds me life is sweet.
mi sono commossa. che donna, che potenza, non per niente è la regina indicussa del soul. rest in power.
Queen of soul
Possibly best in genre
This boasts inarguable classics (Chain of Fools, Ain't No Way), along with deeper cuts that make no bones about soul's gospel roots (People Get Ready) - which also happen to be total bops. & that's not even touching on Aretha's insane vocals that set the standard for multiple genres for decades. Plus, you know, 'beautiful gowns.' Gotta love the shade.
The First Lady of Soul. Possibly President Soul.
r e s p e c t
Incredible
Undeniable talent from Franklin herself and some absolute classic tracks.
Tremendo
I wouldn't really class myself as an Aretha fan, but then I listened to this album. Yeah, that's changed. This album is phenomenal, and definitely a must-own. In conjunction with her 1967 I Never Loved A Man The Way I Love You, I see now why she is the Queen of Soul. Good God.
A certified legend
I’ve long known Aretha Franklin was a vocal master, but this amazed me beyond all expectations!
Oozes class from every fibre. Blues, soul,, rhythm, class. Unrivalled Queen for evermore
Cracking album
Might just be my new favorite album by Southern Soul legend Aretha Franklin - granted I've only ever heard two of her other records, both great. Still, this album delivers such a deep punch instrumentally, and especially vocally that just wasn't *as* present in her other efforts. Versatility in Franklin's vocals is what rounds out this record, whether she decides to harmonize on the slower cut 'People Get Ready', or bring out this slicker drive on a song like 'Chain of Fools', her talents are continuously put on full display. One thing's for certain, no matter what direction she goes in vocally, the backing band is there to support and elevate her performances - I love the guitar and especially that bassline on 'Niki Hoeky'. And don't get me started on the orchestral backing on the masterpiece that is '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman' - such a grandiose demonstration of everything that made this genre great in the late 60s. A truly fantastic soul record - but I expected nothing less. An album that holds Aretha Franklin's best vocal chops - proving that she'll always be one of the greatest singers of all time.
Didn't expect to enjoy this as much as I did! When the album ended I started it again reflexively! :)
Awesome
Det blir typ inte bättre än så här inom genren. Enbart hennes röst gör detta till en femma, men leveransen i övrigt är också oklanderlig. Riktigt hög nivå rakt igenom.
5 stars for this legendary album, and an 5 auxiliary stars for Latrice Royale's legendary lipsync to "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" on Drag Race season 4.
Going to give this one a rare 5. It's got everything. Great vocals, fun instrumentals, and a varied song list. This album never got stale and was enjoyable from start to finish. Some amazing hits and even the deep cuts were good. 9/10 (4.5/5)
Really enjoyed listening to this album. What a banging collection of songs / everlasting hits. Brilliant performance from the GOAT.
Aretha Franklin was sent down from heaven with all the angels voices inside of her!
Pepinazo importante
What's not to like!
Excellent.
It's Aretha.
One of the best to ever do it. What else can one say?
Great vocals Great rhythm section 5*
The Queen of Soul. This album is pure gold!
aretha is really just that girl 9/10
Aretha's version of People Get Ready is my new favorite version. It's great as a Curtis Mayfield song, but she brings so much to it. I never realized how much I liked her ability to elevate everything she does. This album is funky, even something with corny lyrics like Niki Hoeky is funky as hell. This album is a great example of the Muscle Shoals sound. (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman is the biggest hit off the album but it might be my least favorite song on it. Good to Me as I Am to You is a great song I'd never heard. I can't imagine anyone doing these songs better than her. Ain't No Way is the perfect song to end the album on.
Beautiful. Aretha’s voice was so POWERFUL. Fantastic throughout.
LP
It's incredible, obviously.
Giving this a 5. I don’t quite love every single track, but they’re all good and a lot of them are great. Her voice is incredible, most of the lyrics are compelling, and the musicianship and backing vocalists are all great. She’s the queen for a reason. Highlights: Chain of Fools, People Get Ready
She can sing. And while I know some of the songs, there are some l didn’t know and they were equally as good. This is an awesome album that makes you want to listen to more of Aretha.
Just so good. The best are so good and the other songs are still great to listen to.
Luv
Awesome !
It's the damned Queen of Soul. Start it up and get hit in all the feels. Gorgeous.
Arethaaaaaaaa
I did not expect to like this album that much. Boy was I wrong. I guess there's a reason she's such an icon. This album was killer.
Aretha IS the poo. So fucking awesome. 😍 I wish I could have witnessed this live, her energy is transmutable across wavelengths.
Come one, it’s the Queen of soul.
Good
Danced through the dishes with this one.
Take me to church. 5
Indisputably fine. There has never been a female voice to equal Aretha's. Unrivaled. The accompanying music is angelic. Sit my ass down on the screened and porch, give me the lightning bugs, and a sweet tea-- and this album and let me close my eyes for a while.
Aretha is great. This album doesn't disappoint and has some of the classics.
2 songs from this album were already on my main playlist which confirms I have excellent taste in music.