Lady Soul

Beautiful, loved it

⭐️⭐️⭐️ 1001 ALBUMS- # 96 The QUEEN of SOUL 👸 🎤💃 Lady of Soul may have captured Franklin at the height of her vocal powers, being a masterclass in passion, control, and emotional truth — the sound of gospel meeting grit, funk meeting fire, and heartbreak meeting empowerment. Having said that, like many performing divas, she may have owned the microphone in front of these great songs, but the writing credits belong to others. The Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section and The Sweet Inspirations back Aretha with tight, soulful precision. Jerry Wexler’s production keeps everything grounded in groove and gospel fire. Aretha herself plays piano on several tracks, giving the songs their pulsing, church-rooted rhythm. 🎧 (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman 🎧 Deep Cut Gem: Good to Me As I Am to You 🎧 Memorable Standout: Chain of Fools The album arrived during a period of intense social and political change in America — the Civil Rights Movement, the rise of Black Power, and the growing feminist consciousness. Aretha Franklin stood at the crossroads of all these movements. Her voice wasn’t only about love and heartbreak; it became a symbol of self-respect, racial pride, and feminine power. The album’s title — Lady Soul — positioned her as both a dignified woman and a spiritual force. This album solidified her transition from a gospel-trained singer to a mainstream cultural icon who spoke directly to the spirit of her time. 🖼️ Album Artwork: Diva Pose Franklin’s vocal control destabilizes gender norms in music. Where male soul singers often equated power with dominance, Aretha’s power lies in emotional command — the ability to shape meaning through tone, phrasing, and silence. She does play piano on several tracks, grounding the rhythm and asserting musical authority. Her arrangements often direct the flow of emotion — she leads the band rather than following it. From a critical standpoint, Lady Soul is an early example of a Black woman exerting control within an industry structured to limit it. It’s a subtle but significant act of artistic resistance. As legendary this album may be along with the unmistakable vocals, I just can’t let it slide that Aretha herself only has two songwriting credits within these outstanding tracks.

Every song is a banger

how do you rate aretha. 5

That voice! She’s incredible.

In a bad mood? Give this a try. If this doesn't cure what ails you there may be no saving you.

I had never actually listened to an Aretha Franklin album and only knew Natural Woman (more familiar with Carole King's version) and Respect. This was a mistake, and I'll be listening to more of her discography. Skipped: None. This is a no skip album. Liked: Chain of Fools, Money Won't Change You, People Get Ready, Good To Me As I Am to You, Ain't No Way Loved: Niki Hoeky, Natural Woman, Since You've Been Gone, Come Back Baby, Groovin Album Favourite: Since You've Been Gone Saved to Liked Songs: All

Interrssante

It should be illegal to have so many classics on one album. Her voice is astonishing, the instrumentation is tight and groovy and funky. The way she sings is so emotive it makes you want to cry or laugh, it makes me feel strong. Has this explosive energy throughout.

Overall: 7/10 Aretha is a legend. I don't think I need to tell you she has an incredible voice. The songs here were all good choices for her and I enjoyed pretty much all of them. At the same time, they all sounded a little too similar at times. Still a really good album. Fav Song: Groovin'

So many hits. Just really strong album

The Queen of soul. Classic LP.

Banger

tätähän tämä on, kuuntelisi vaikka joka päivä. Tämän tason tuotantoa tuohon aikaan. Kerralla purkkiin vaan. prkl

It’s a greatest hits album by what of the best voices ever

Great, Aretha classics. Such a great voice and awesome sounding production for the era. I’m not the biggest soul person but I still loved this.

What an amazing performer! Lots of great songwriting, great melodies, lots of classics. I wouldn't usually put a record like this on, but no denying she's incredible

What a powerhouse! A lot of hits on this album. (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You've Been Gone stood out among the other hits. 4.5/5

Fantastic. Her voice is so great. Money won't change you, good to me, and chain of fools stand out.

A solid album. Easy listening. Incredible voice

Good singer.

This is absolutely stellar.

Chain chain chaaaaiin

Pure class! Classy music from a classy lady.

Top 100 easily. Legendary voice

Iconic voice. 3 knock out songs and a few decent ones sprinkled in-between. 4/5.

Um álbum interessante à despeito dos vocais convencionais e um tanto enjoativos, mas com bons arranjos instrumentais, com destaque para as partes de guitarras e baixos.

Loved it!

Amazing voice. The vocal runs induce goosebumps. Decent album, some amazing songs, a few good ones and some fillers. Definetly earned its place on the list.

I mean…it’s Ms Aretha. No need to say anything else

Aretha never ceases to amaze me. Her voice is an instrument and blends beautifully while also taking lead.

Joyful.

OHHHH MA GOD THATS SO FUCKING GOOD WHAT THE ACTUAL FUUCCKKK C’MONNNNN THATS SOUL BABY

Not my genre

Glücklicherweise in den Herbstferien auf diese schöne Sache gestoßen. Von Aretha Franklin am Schreibtisch bedudeln lassen. Schönes Album. Chain of Fools kennt man natürlich, hätte ich gar nicht so benennen können.

Several lovely songs from an icon!

Oooouuh, mama! Ça slap!

Es que no sé cómo podría ponerle menos de 5 estrellas a esto. Otsea.

Wonderful.

Well she's the best, 5*****

Very fun but kinda repetitive

Кайфыч

oh yeah

It’s called Lady Soul for a reason.

The greatest singer of all time. You don't need any other notes to write about Aretha. One of the saving graces of American society.

Lowkey resonant.

Enjoyed this.

What an incredible voice

Seriously? How am I supposed to give Aretha Franklin, at the top of her game, anything other than 5 stars?! Good grief. This launched two of her biggest hits, "Chain of Fools" and "You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman." Strengths: Aside from Aretha just killing it, the rhythm section is top notch: members of Memphis Boys and Muscle Shoals Swampers. Weakness: just too darn short (less than 30 minutes). Favorite songs: "(Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You've Been Gone" and "Good to Me As I Am To You." Rating: 5/5

Definitely better than her other album, but it’s still just alright

Smooth, cathartic and beautiful

Great from front to back.

she has a strong voice

Can’t go wrong with Aretha.

I never heard the rest of this album other than the really popular songs. Although I probably won’t listen to this a lot, I understand the talent of Aretha Franklin.

This is an incredible album by the Queen of Soul. Practically a greatest hits album.

she is lady soul

All-time five-star, absolute classic album. The soul of soul. One of the keystones in my collection, and what a treat it is to get this out of the rack and spin it on this occasion. The horn charts, the backup singers, and of course, The Queen of Soul, her voice, and her piano.

soul lady! the real deal

Legendarisk röst och bra låtar!

Klass!

Förtjänar säkert högre betyg från mig men det fångar mig inte riktigt just nu

Gostei de People Get Ready, A Natural Woman e Niki Hoeky. Aretha Franklin sempre me surpreende.

Beautiful, soulful, groovy, everything you could want from an artist like Aretha. Her voice can scream through the noise like no other, and the rest of the band deserves their credit as well for producing powerful rhythms to drive her through the record. You couldn’t get more timeless than this.

Breathtaking Best Song: Good to Me as I am to You Rating: 9/10 Stars: 5 Stars

A Natural Women - released 1968

i appreciate aretha franklin

Nicht meine Musik aber extrem entspannt

She is very good! Her voice is amazing and the songs are great.

Classics

Soooooul

What a powerful woman and a great artist.

Per ongeluk het album soul sister eerst beluisterd, omdat ik niet goed zat op te letten. Woeps. Ik vond die wel erg fijn, dus ben benieuwd hoe ze hier uit de verf komt. Ik kan mijn vinger er niet echt op leggen, maar ik vind dit album dus minder leuk dan het album dat ik eerder heb geluisterd. Dit is volgens mij wel de OG a natural woman, dat vind ik wel tof.

It was good the first time around and grew on me, the singer is very good at loud/quite harsh/soft which is control I admire

Could have got 4 for natural woman alone

surprisingly upbeat

Yes, that s it and I remember my parents, politic and so on@!@

I mean, it's Aretha Franklin. You can't go wrong.

Didn't know the genre was called Soul. I like it

Money won't chabge you è una hit. Ascoltato con molto piacere

She’s undeniably emotional; just not emotive for me.

It was pretty good, but it's just not my thing.

There's no denying Franklin's incredible voice and musical stylings that are still being copied and iterated on fifty years after this album debuted. Still, I personally admire Aretha Franklin a lot more than I want to sit down and listen to Aretha Franklin

amo a voz dela!!!!!!!

I struggle sometimes with this era of soul. Some of it I love, and usually can always appreciate, but the over use of it in movies and other forms of media throughout the years has forever tainted it for me. Goes without saying, but she sounds incredible.

I love the sound of the music on here, but I was never a big fan of Aretha's singing voice. Too high-frequency for my ears. Almost like an alarm or siren (not the one in greek myth, but the one on a police car or ambulance)

Not much wrong here… (4.5)

A classic that never misses. It’s one of those albums I don’t put on often enough, but if it were the only record at a vacation home for a week, I’d be perfectly fine with it. From her voice to the backing musicians, it perfectly captures what was great about that era of music. (4.5 all day long)

Excellent album from the Queen of Soul. I got to see her perform at the Opening Ceremony of the 1996 Atlanta Paralympic Games and she put on a great show

(3) v powerful vocals

Great!!!

STUPENDO(*^ー^)ノ♪

This is the kind of record that you don’t have to be in the mood for, because it just always fits the mood. Just amazing stuff from one of the legends of the genre. Best Track: (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman

Who is the greatest singer of all time? I'm talking about singing ability here. Whose voice shook the world the most? Well, and I'm just one person, so I can't really say this for sure, but I think Aretha Franklin might be that person. I know it's been said so many times, but Aretha Franklin's singing was truly one of a kind. It's just so perfect. Of course, good singing doesn't matter much if the songs suck. Fortunately, the songs on Lady Soul are great. This album's stellar. I don't think I could 100% call it better than the other Aretha album on the list, but it's a close call. The thing that really appeals to me with her songs is the natural sense of female empowerment. It doesn't sound like she's trying too hard. She's literally just being the girlboss she clearly was. Look at a song like "Chain of Fools." First off, this is an incredible opener. Secondly, look at the lyrics. It's basically Aretha telling off an unfaithful partner and I love it. This is the kind of music society needed at the time! It's excellent. Other songs take a more sensual approach, like the all-time classic "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman." While I love Carole King's version of the song off of her album Tapestry, this is another one of those cases where the song has basically become Aretha's. I mean, this album did release before Tapestry, so Aretha literally sang it before Carole, even if Carole wrote it. The musicians who play instruments here are great too. Did you know that Eric Clapton played guitar on one of these songs? I didn't, but it was a fun surprise. It's hard to believe that this album is under half an hour! I want more of it. This is an excellent album all throughout. Light 5/5.

Superb! I'm groovin in my seat 🤩 What a vocal range and much love ❤️ to the backup singers. Band keeps it tight and just right. Freaking love this album!

***** Classic Aretha album, classic Artetha songs. Hey, it's Aretha, so it is alway right. What a voice. Great album

Heals the soul in an autumn morning

👌

The Queen of Soul with some of her signature classics.

Second Aretha album from the generator and once again she proved she's the queen 4/5

Great vocals, not my cup of tea but certainly nothing to hate on here

The most incredible voice of the 1960s

Aretha was a powerhouse!

Cover 5 Mini rant: a lot of stupid, generic covers. There's nothing particularly wrong with this cover, it's just whatever. It's not meant to be art, and, it seems, not meant to attract attention or evoke anything. Clearly, it's just a statement: "This is an Aretha Franklin album." So boring. Anyway, this album opens with a great song, if not a little short and repetitive. Another mini rant: 99% of the time, I don't care for "Bonus" or "Deluxe"versions of albums, especially digital versions. Almost always they just throw in demos or live versions of the same songs that aren't good enough for their own separate album. I'd prefer a whole live album or a demo-only version album (if that's what I was looking for). Adding this stuff onto an album doesn't make it better or new. I often don't feel I'd miss out on anything. I might listen to them once or twice (if I'm not paying attention), but am rarely surprised. They're whatever tracks. Thrown on so the album doesn't look like just another reissue, but to no real affect. Money grab. That's it. If course, but we'll deluxe. But many. This album doesn't follow a theme, at least not the order of songs. So there's no overall story, which is pretty much on par for a lot of albums. Throw in a bunch of songs in whatever order. These are great songs, though. Having a theme and some sort of logical order of songs makes the listening, for me, flow better. Going from Chain to Money to People to Niki just seems slapdash. Unto themselves, the songs are excellent. Together, they're a playlist of random songs by the same artist. If feel like she knew she was Aretha so no other thought needed to be done when making an album. It just had to be her. Which, as far as sales went when this first came out, was probably true. And to be honest, I don't always take that into account when reviewing an album, unless the disregard for the order or theme, or lack thereof, becomes an obvious issue. It became an issue for me with this album, almost immediately, so I wasn't looking to have issues. It just became immediately obvious upon the first transition for song one to song two and then continued throughout the album. Again, I love this album but I can't give it a perfect score as a whole. If an album is not considered a single work of art, then I can't give it five stars. But this is so close. 4.5/5.

Groovy

Fucking hell what an album

Hot damn, I got a good album for today. If you all didn’t know, in the last decade or so, I’ve really gotten into Motown and Stax records. Rock ‘n’ roll is dead, or at least boring, so I jumped in a time machine and went back to the 1960s and 1970s to hear the jams I missed. And this album is right in my wheelhouse. There are songs on this album that are just imprinted in our brains and we don’t even know how or why. It’s like Aretha Franklin’s music is in the air and you pick it up without even realizing it. While listening to this album at work yesterday, I had to stop working a few times and just listen to these songs. For example, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, is just jaw-dropping and I’ve heard it 1,000 times. That song is so good that if you’re a dude, it’ll make you wish you were a woman just so you can really feel what that song means. I mean, it gets to you in your guts. Chain of Fools is a perfect song. It was her biggest hit off this album and was covered very nicely by a band in the hair metal era called Little Caesar. Embarrassingly, that’s how I first heard the song. I loved it then and when I heard Aretha’s version, I quickly realized she, of course, had the better version. People Get Ready takes you to church and for a southern boy like me, growing up in the church, this song reminds me of the incredible music I got to hear all my life. It’s music that swings and makes you feel good. It makes you want to go out and get baptized. Beyond Aretha’s voice, which is universally known and perhaps the greatest singing voice ever, the music is played by the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, or the Swampers. The Swampers played with everybody back in the day, including, Lynyrd Skynyrd, Wilson Pickett, Aretha, the Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan, Bob Seger, Paul Simon and more. It’s like fate meant for these two entities to come together. Hell, even Eric Clapton pops up on the song, Good To Me As I Am To You. I’m talking good Clapton, CREAM Clapton. I’ve often wondered if I’m the only one this happens to, but I get this thing where I’ll be listening to music, like great music, music that’s just so good that I start to feel emotional, like I’m going to bust out crying just because, I don’t know, it’s so beautiful. Anyone else like that? No, just me? Listening to this album there were several times I had to literally stop and compose myself. I haven’t had that happen in a while and that’s why I know this is a legendary album everyone must hear before they die.

This album really sounds like it’s sung from the heart

Perfect!

This was a lovely listen. A few great songs ( Chain of Fools, A Natural Woman. Ain't no way) and nothing sub-par. The production is rough but in a lovely way. Hearing the mic distort when Aretha belts out a high note is lovely and warm. I can't say it's an album I'd come back to, those songs were the standouts, but a strong 4

She could sing the phone book and it would be amazing.

Pleasant to listen to! Chain of Fools and You Love Me Like a Natural Woman are my faves.

I like the sound of the instrumentals better on this one compared to the previous Aretha album we got. But the highlight remains her voice. She did not steal that title.

Solid

Good stuff

I will in no way deny Aretha's amazing vocal talent, she set standards people are still following. however, it's so repetitive ... even with the great Memphis production and musicians, every song has to have the vocal gymnastics. can she just simply sing a song without oversinging? only one song here ("Natural Woman") does so. It's the same feeling with the Janis Joplin featured here earlier. It's a shame because the songs here are really good; I just can't stand the constant up down up down up down vocal runs. It's tiring.

pues bien pero no tanto

It's good, but I feel like I've heard this album one too many times. 4/5

She can't miss.

Niki Hoeky Natural Woman Vinyl Worthy

Excelente álbum. De no interesarme el género, este me lo pondría en mi casa para ambientar.

Classic! I listened to this more than once as I never realized how great she was.

Outstanding. No bad tracks on the album. 26 year old Aretha sounds amazing. Chains of fools kicks off the album perfectly, Aretha is powerful yet restrained, almost too easy for her. Love this song. People get ready, grooving, and natural woman other standout.

No doubt she can sing and own a song! Opening with classic "Chain Of Fools" and including "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" and great glue tracks like her versions of "People Get Ready" & "Groovin", "Money Won't Change You", and "Come Back Baby". I also enjoyed "Niki Hoeky", the least listened to track on the album. I did feel a few were high pitched and maybe over-sung. 3 stars, for longevity, hits, timeless sound and star power.

What a fabulous album.

Some classics, a little filler but, overall, beautiful.

Love this. Chain of Fools may be her best single?

Immediate 5 stars. Absolute perfection.

Beautiful wonderful stuff through and through. Carries a lot of feelings and just wonderful grooves. A real treat after Mellancollie and the infinite sadness.

Absolute belter, we had a soul filled house for 24 hours.

Hey sister, soul sister.

Chain of fools is a personal fave of mine, so crackin' way to dive right into the album. What a voice. So many feels. Ain't No Way pulls at the heart strings. A solid soul album.

The entire album was solidly good

Marvelous voice, marvelous singer.

She's one of the greatest of all time for a reason. Great Motown Album. Full of hits.

Just a stellar album. Franklin’s voice is mesmerizing and her dynamic range is incredible. Almost every song in this album is memorable.

Very good soul album, features Eric Clapton on guitar for a song

Trying to catch up so saying very little. Wow! Amazing voice never realised she had been that good. 4

A sensational vocal performance and some great tunes. This caught me on a good day and the songs lifted my mood even higher!

A bit too preachy preachy God God for me. That may sound odd coming from a Spacemen 3 fan, but she means God, they mean drugs. Still it was a nice short happy clappy album

3 - fun and soulful

Only listened to a few songs - not the vibe I was looking for that day but very funky.

I already had this one on my Spotify liked albums! A perfect album front to back

There needs to be a rating option for, like, “I understand this album is brilliant but it’s just not for me” because it feels wrong to give this album 3 stars when I can hear the immense skill and talent and just obvious EXCELLENCE of it but the way it’s mostly whooshing over my head like so many other 3 star albums makes me need to give it 3 stars. It’s not you Aretha it’s me, honestly.

Don't got a ton to say other than this is damn good soul/blues. Couple classic tracks like Chain of Fools and (You Make Me Feel) Like A Woman. Groovin' and Ain't No Way are fantastic closers as well. Aretha was just the best at what she did, and that's just how it is.

8/10 Favorite: Chain Of Fools

Seriously an amazing album- I dont think there is a bad song on it. Franklin's voice is so captivating, and the compositions are full of emotion. Great album- deserves a 5

Aretha is amazing! Her voice is powerful and she has so much control over it. Every song has soul (so the album title is apt) and the backup singers enhance the musicality even more with their harmonies. Natural Woman 🙌 🙌 Other bangers include Chain of Fools and Ain't No Way. 9/10.

Not much to say here, this album is perfect front to back.

I don't think the original recording is mixed particularly well or this would be 5 stars.

I will not include the CD reissue bonus tracks in this review. It's been a little over a month since I heard I Never Loved a Man the Way I Loved You on this album journey. While that record is more recognizable in Aretha Franklin's catalog, Lady Soul is still just as spellbinding. While Aretha's original songwriting largely took a back seat in favor of outside writers and covers, her bellowing performance was still top-notch. Running the gamut from the bass-leaden bounce of "Chain of Fools", the horn-accompanied renditions of James Brown's "Money Won't Change" and the Impressions' "People Get Ready", into the elegant ballad "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" composed by Carole King, Aretha effectively owned these recordings with her voice. That's not to say Aretha still didn't see results from her own songwriting chops. The powerhouse shuffle of "(Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You've Been Gone" and the slowed-down swing of "Good to Me As I Am to You", complete with Eric Clapton's guitar soloing, were a pair of neatly penned deep cuts. Plus, it was a nice touch to let sister Carolyn write the closing number "Ain't No Way", which ended up being an effective final note in the raw, emotional swell of the presentation as the Sweet Inspirations provided the supportive backing vocals to complement Aretha's delivery. I think it would be difficult to say which of Lady Soul or I Never Loved a Man would be considered more essential, considering they were both fantastic records. Whatever the case may be, it was a pleasant time listening to the Queen.

Shit

The queen of bangers

Wasn't expecting to like this as much as I did. Something about it is so soothing. Really nice album, will probably listen again.

Yeah not my typical type of listen but that slapped. Good onya, Aretha.

when an album opens with Chain of Fools, how could you not love it? Best voice around.

I had no idea how good this was going to be.

It's great, I get why they call it soul. There's just something so uplifting about it and it hits hard even though it's much less of an "artsy" songwriter type album than most of my favourites. The singing sounds great and so do the instrumentals, love all the brass. 4.25 stars

Best Songs: Chain of Fools, Money Won’t Change You, People Get Ready, Niki Hoeky, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, Sweet Sweet Baby, Good To Me As I Am To You, Come Back Baby, Groovin’, Ain’t No Way Mid Songs: Bad Songs:

It's soul, it's okay, not my thing

top 3: - chain of fools - people get ready - (you make me feel like) a natural woman

Just that guitar tone on Chain Of Fools gets 5 stars from me. And it's Aretha Franklin. This has got to be on the list.

lekkere soul. Zal ik nog wel een keer opzetten

Everytime I think of Aretha I always think about her incredible voice and singing talent, and perhaps especially how hailed she has been for it. It is hard to look at her music objectively because of that. Regardless, I think this is a really solid record. 'Chain Of Fools', '(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman', and 'Ain't No Way' are timeless tracks, and probably some of her best work. The other tracks are very good as well. Generally I find all the lyrical content about god a bit hard to relate to, but I mean it's soul so it kind of belongs here I guess. I can't really say I find it to be a very progressive either, much content seem to be about how a womans duty is to please her man somehow, but maybe I'm missing a deeper meaning. Overall, this felt packed with just enough good songs to turn it into a really solid record. When it comes to Soul, I don't doubt this is one of the better ones.

Some classic soul, and what a good one too. There are a few stand out tracks on this album. Of course, you have classics like “Chain of Fools” and “(You make me feel) Like a Natural Woman”. I would also like to point out “People Get Ready” as a gem on this album. Single tracks might not be the point though, the vocals are. I feel like if you don’t appreciate Aretha Franklin, do you even like music? It’s very hard not to groove along with this album. Soul albums are a bit weird since they are not always original compositions and the same artist might have released multiple albums each year. I think this deserves a 5 for the vocals alone. Sure all the songs aren’t great but if you ever want to try soul music this is a good starting point.

Not my cup of tea. I love 80s music but this was a little too ballads-y for me.

Will listen to again. She’s definitely THE lady of soul

Of all the albums I’ve heard so far, this one feels like the most obvious inclusion. Aretha Franklin isn’t just a legend - she is soul music. Everyone knows the hits, but hearing them together on Lady Soul reminds you just how untouchable she was. The performances are powerful, the writing is sharp, and the collaboration among the players (from the Muscle Shoals rhythm section to guest guitar by Eric Clapton) makes it clear how much talent surrounded her. It’s one of those albums that captures everything that makes music timeless - passion, precision, and pure feeling.

This was excellent. Soulful, warm and immersive. Chain of fools, natural women, and ain't no way were top tier. But I enjoyed it all.

There were some good parts.

Pretty good

⭐️Chain of Fools

A quick 10 songs in 30 minutes, but solid all the way through

CHAIN CHAIN CHAIIINNNN

Loved her music already!

Great listen! Not a ton to go on here, but I enjoyed the lesser-known songs by Aretha, and never really felt like it went in a bad direction. Solid 4/5

There's certainly nothing to object to in this. Good music, well performed. It's not really my style, but I did enjoy it.

Queen. 4.1

I've listened to this album so many times, trying to enjoy it or understand what I could be missing, but it never manages to do anything for me, and I'm not proud at all of saying it. Aretha Franklin is such a spectacular singer with a powerful and very emotional voice. The band does also a great job accompanying the vocals. And yet, I fail to resonate with anything from this record. This album isn't bad by any means. Is just that I'm not really feeling any strong emotion. At least I can appreciate her talent and the performances Wish I did liked it more...

Es Aretha. Qué voz, qué letras, qué arreglos, qué música, qué intérpretes, qué canciones. Aretha acabando con todos los demás. No se necesita más cuando se escucha a Aretha.

Aretha is a the best singer ever to have lived. Im not a religious man but she is exhibit A in the argument that faith can and does have a positive impact on the world. This gospel and soul is just beautiful

If this record were not had Chain of Fools and a bunch of terrible songs it’d still be five stars. Lucky for us everything Aretha touches here is gold.

Absolutely perfect

Dope

Holy vocals, Aretha can belt a hell of a tune. This was a delightful dabble into old soul music, I thoroughly enjoyed this album from top to bottom.

Lovely Album, Chain Chain chain!

It's Aretha fucking Franklin - Banger

9/10 banger after banger on this one

A voice like no one else!!! The soulfulness and passion i love her music!!! I need to listen to more!! I recognized a few songs from the album and i enjoyed it all!! Shes got such a range and so much control

Mom-core

51/1001 :: Aretha Franklin - Lady Soul Heard before? ❌ Would I revisit? ✅ Rating: 9 Fav Tracks: (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You Been Gone, Money Won’t Change You, Natural Woman Listen before you die: Yes Lord When I reviewed I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You I gave it a 7. It was very good. It’s not this good. This album is on another level. It’s immediate. Undeniable. When Aretha made this she was in the pocket. I haven’t listened to any of her other albums but I can’t imagine it gets better than this. As far as soul records go it doesn’t get much better than this. Should also be noted James Brown, Curtis Mayfield, Carole King all credited as writers on this album. Clapton also listed as guitarist on Good to Me as I Am to You. Just all time stuff.

5 stars

god might actually be real

if u don't think about latrice royale vs lil kenya michaels when you make me feel like (a natural woman) comes on, ur 2 str8 4 me works cited: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8t8M4nPxhfI

Excellent

Lady Soul has to be the most fitting album name.

I didn't expect to get much out of this at all, but I'm pleased to say that I did. Some people just have an aura, and Aretha Franklin sure as hell does. Really enjoyed the playful bass licks throughout this, and it turns out I wasn't entirely unfamiliar with Aretha Franklin as I did recognise a handful of tracks, without knowing of the artist. An empowering and passionate, yet quite intimate listening experience. I'll be exploring further.

The Queen of Soul took her throne with this album…With some help from a fantastic lineup of supporting players. They don’t make albums or singers like this anymore.

Best R&B singer ever. In fact best singer!!!

There's some pretty decent singing on this album.

This was perfectly wonderful but I would've appreciated some more hits.

Not a lot to say here. Queen of the genre for a reason.

absolute banger, can’t say a single bad thing about it

Good soul album - obviously great voice, pretty good songs. I get why this is on the list, but I just never really connected with Aretha.

I need some more "Respect" in my life, but this album was fine.

I hate to say it, but overplayed.

What can I say? She really was the queen of soul.

Clear why she's one of the great. Aoibh enjoyed dancing around the kitchen to her

This was amazing. It’s Aretha. I really liked “Chain of Fools”, “People Get Ready”, “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman”, “Good To Me As I Am To You”

Great grooves and bass lines. I wasn't groovin' with "Groovin'" at first but she won me over by the end of the song. One of the great singers of our time and it doesn't get much better than "Chain of Fools".

very good

Simply great

The aretha album i’ve been waiting for someone to recommend me.

That's a nice voice.

Dang Aretha go off queen

Seminal e obrigatório. Muscle Shoals - FAME Studios sound. 5 estrelas

Like it

She sounds like the girl in school of rock

Fake orgasm vocals

Really solid album from start to finish. I mean it is the queen of soul what more is there to say. 7/10

Another one I wish I had discovered sooner... I was missing this in my life. Feel good soul. Great grooves and melodies

Ain't no way that I ain't giving this a 5/5

Probably could have given this 5/5 without even listening through, but then I wouldn’t have the opportunity to listen to these amazing tracks! Incredibly powerful, funky and soulful, and amazing vocal performance. Don’t call her the Queen for nothing, this was as awesome as I predicted it would be!! Easy 5 stars

Sublime. Only thing missing is I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You) which is one of my all time favourite tracks. Dazzling talent on display from everyone involved 👌🏻

Chain of fools: 8 [Lyrics 9/10 + Instrumental 10/10] Money won't change you: 7 [Lyrics 6/10 + Instrumental 10/10] People get ready: 8 [Lyrics 7/10 + Instrumental 10/10] Niki Hoeky: 6 [Lyrics 7/10 + Instrumental 8/10] A natural woman: 9 [Lyrics 9/10 + Instrumental 10/10] Since you've been gone: 10 [Lyrics 9/10 + Instrumental 10/10] Good to me as I am to you: 8 [Lyrics 8/10 + Instrumental 10/10] Come back baby: 8 [Lyrics 5/10 + Instrumental 10/10] Groovin': 10 [Lyrics 10/10 + Instrumental 10/10] Ain't no way: 9 [Lyrics 9/10 + Instrumental 10/10] Amo la instrumental del album. "Niki Hoeky" tiene una letra tan rara y divertida que es adictiva. Obviamente no podemos saltarnos la famosisima canción de "A natural woman" está hecha con mucho cariño y respeto, pensaba que nadie le quitaría el top hasta que apareció "Since you've been gone", no entiendo por qué no fue el siguiente single o hit! "Some people want but they don't wanna give" siempre hay alguien así y en "Good to me as I am to you" no solo suelta facts.. también lanza un falsetto en el 2:59 que te da un subidón. Super chill "Groovin'". La primera vez que escuché la canción de "Ain't no way" fue una cover de Demi Lovato, me encantó, la versión original también me ha gustado, especialmente un verso que dice <Stop tryin' to be someone you're not> creo que aplica muy bien a lo que es la gente hoy en día. Top 3: A natura woman, Since you've been gone, Groovin' Least fav: Niki Hoeky Me he saltado las últimas 4 canciones (del Bonus Selection) porque son las mismas pero en versión mono, el álbum me ha gustado mucho, he disfrutado como una bebé la instrumental, es perfecto tanto para escucharlo activamente un día lluvioso de otoño con un té y mantita hasta para tenerlo en segundo plano mientras haces cositas. Su voz es preciosa. Son 14 canciones y dura 44 minutos Score: 8.3 Lo recomiendo? Por supuesto.

There's no one like Aretha. Amazing

Behageligt album.

TWELFTH studio album! Such a unique and powerful sounds with endless groove and soul. ‘Chain of Fools’ and ‘Natural Woman’ obvious stand outs but each song has great lyrics, feel and depth. ‘Since you’ve been gone’ too. And quite a novel thing for brackets first in titles. A wonderful album and look forward to more.

I totally respect Aretha Franklin as an absolutely amazing singer and pioneer in soul music, and I do love some of her songs, but the soul sound sometimes grates on my ears after a while. I thought this album was pretty good, but I was done by the end (or maybe slightly before the end, if I'm being honest). For these reasons, I'm giving it four stars.

1-7.5/10 2-6.7/10 ts tuff 3-6.4/10 ma talent kobitka 4-5/10 5-5.5/10 6-5.5/10 7-5.8/10 8-5.6/10 9-5.5/10 10-6.6/10 Ale fajny album, przyjemny i słychać że kobieta ma talent ale nie myśle że będę tego słuchał na co dzień. 7.2/10 fav track- chain of fools

That 🎙️

Wow. Just wow

Bow down

A national treasure. 'Natural Woman' is a song that gets better over time and even more iconic once you see her performing it live at the Kennedy Center in a giant fur coat that she proceeds to take off at the end. Aretha's Gold is a desert island album pick for me and this one is amazing (but doesn't quite hit like her compilation).

This rules. Probably her most consistently good full album. I will say two things. One, it’s recorded/produced like dogshit, considering it was 1968, not 1958. Two, I sometimes find her voice kind of screechy.

A joy to my ears, just not for every situation, so had to deduct 1 ⭐️

every song is spectacular. aretha's voice is just so incredible - in the running for the best ever. teetering on a 5 but i think i like the songs as singles, or listening to one side at a time, as opposed to the entire collection at once. incredible songs - not necessarily a compelling album imo.

Not much to say here, it's an excellent soul album from start to finish. Aretha Franklin truly has no equal. Lady Soul is full of heart and energy, with a vibe that almost feels like blues in some tracks (like the legendary Chain of Fools). A few other songs are slightly less impressive than the others, but overall this album is still a strong contender for "Aretha's best". Really can't decide which I like best between this one and I Never Loved A Man.

Aretha!!!! My lady!!! The best voice in the game. This album makes you want to get up and sway or clap or dance. Some songs I just close my eyes and smile and rock back and forth. Some songs I put my arms in the air and jump around. That's the range of Aretha. This album is just so good all the way through, the horns, the strings, the gospel backing vocals, Aretha herself. There's a reason she's known as the best of the best.

Lifted my spirits on a rainy Monday morning. Packed with lots of brilliant tracks but as a record it lacked a unifying emotional throughline.

Gode sange men også kedelige sange

Classic stuff. The sheer weight and power of Aretha's legacy guarantees this four stars.

It's flawless, isn't it?

3 out of 5. She has a great voice and knows how to use it.

I could listen to Aretha sing about her breakfast and still give it 6 stars

One of the best records I've ever heard. Love the voice of her and I'll continue listening to it for years. Glad I'm able to listen to stuff like this in this day and age.

Good listen

Classic, but nothing I’d listen to on a regular basis.

What a voice. I knew the hits from AM Radio back in the day, so was keen to listen to the whole album. It is a bit same-y but Natural Woman just stands out as a vocal driven offering amongst the rest, that was my Gem too.

I feel that anytime to listen to some Aretha Franklin is almost always fits the occasion. You want to mellow out? She's there. You want to dance or boogie? She's there. You want to cry? Her voice is there. This album is also pretty good in an era when albums weren't the thing or idea they are now. I really love her voice. It just is so soulful and warm to hear her sing the songs that she gave to the world. She really is probably the songbird of her era and an American icon. Favorite Tracks: Chain of Fools, Money Won't Change You, People Get Ready, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You've Been Gone, Ain't No Way Rating: 4.5/5

Great voice, solid songs. Nothing too innovative.

A consistent vibe

5/5

Cool to hear all these songs together

Queen B slays all

didn’t like it as much as i thought i would but still such a vocally powerful album

I mean, what can you say? The voice js amazing, the songs are iconic and fun

3.5

No hay forma de que no me resulte perfecto un disco de Aretha.

Easy to like. Wonderful voice and just classic music.

Some classic stuff. I can take or leave soul music but she is good. Rating: 3

Smooth Aretha vocals as expected

This is crazy good - I had never heard her versions of some of these songs before, and the classics are indeed classic for a reason. Like the previous Aretha, it's a reminder of just what an incomparable talent she was and how strikingly amazing her voice was.

she absolutely bodied this!!!!!

I was going to give this 4, but I listened again and couldn't remember why. It's such a damn pleasure to listen to her sing. It's the perfect album to put on while cleaning (which I mean as high praise) as long as I wear headphones so I can't feel subhuman by hearing myself sing along. (Especially to the backing vocals on Ain't No Way - HEAVENLY stuff right there.) I just had Tapestry 5 albums ago, so it's cool to hear (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman again. I love King's version, and of course it's her song, but Aretha made it something extra special. I gave her prior release, I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You, 4 stars. It's good, but I definitely found an extra star's worth of enjoyment in Lady Soul. Indeed she is.

4/5

7/10

Moćan glas. Moćan bas. Ali da se ne lažemo, stvarno nisam nešto uživala u ovom albumu.

Yeah, she is lady soul

Beautiful! This album is so soulful, funky, and full of emotion. Aretha's singing is on a different level, and the backing vocals complement her well. The musicians are on point in every song; groovy drum and bass, and melodic horns and guitar. Fav tracks: "Chain of Fools", "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman", "Good to Me As I Am To You", and "Ain't No Way" 5/5 Soul is my genre of choice, but this was so great

Great song writers, incredible voices and a sublime group of musicians.

its alright

Classic songs, amazing voice nothing not to like here. Didn’t need to listen to the mono versions. Gonna give this a 4 because of the legendary status. Ain’t no way was a stand out for me.

Classic stuff with crazy voice.

I love Motown, Stax and Muscle Shoals music. I'm deeply fascinated by the house bands of the era, like Muscle Shoals rhythm section, The Swampers, The Funk Brothers, The Big Six, The Mar-Keys, The Wrecking Crew and so forth. While this is a nice album, one I've heard many a time in bits and pieces, it's not the best stuff in the genre, nor in Aretha's own catalogue.

One of the best to do it.

5/9

Great groovy record for a Friday afternoon. I know this isn’t anything that hasn’t been said before but even outside of the power of her voice, the smoothness of it is incredible

although this is my second fave aretha album it’s objectively her best

a classic! really good album

One of my favorite soul singers of all time. Ms. Franklin sings on a level that can't be compared.

Not as strong as other Aretha Franklin albums in my opinion, but still a gem

Aretha!

CHAIN CHAIN CHAAAAAAIIN

This is Aretha Franklin in her prime, one of her best records. Some of my favorite "deep" cuts are on this album: "Niki Hoeky" and "Come Back Baby". Listening all the way through, not a single song is weak. It of course has very recognizable tracks like "Chain of Fools" and "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman", but her cover of "People Get Ready" was especially moving. The guitar and studio band are tight throughout. It's a short and nearly perfect album.

Lordy what a set of pipes this woman had. RIP to the Queen.

Her vocals hit like sunshine after rain. Absolutely radiant. But what really caught me off guard were the backing arrangements. The horns, strings, and that freaky sneaky bass groove. It all just moves. Spins: 3 Playlist Additions: - Chain of Fools - (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman - (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You've Been Gone - Ain't No Way

The Queen of Soul at her peak.

What a powerhouse

such a lovely album!!!! I liked every song!!! 8/10

Classic soul music

WHAT A VOICE!

It’s classic Aretha. ‘Nuff said.

Oh yes

So many songs which became hits and then the classic standards of the genre era.

Tolle starke Stimme dieser Frau und die Songs waren cool

Gewaltige Stimme, schöne Musik.

This is one of those generational albums that changed music.

+ Background vocals, Instrumental-> Bass/guitar/Sax, Lead Vocal, - Fav Tracks: People get ready, A Natural Woman, Since you been gone Least fav Tracks: Niki Hoeky, Good to me as I Am to You Mentions: Guitar Licks bei People get ready, Sax Bride Money won't change you, Strings und Chorus auf Natural Woman,

Fantastic. Absolutely great. I love her.