Aretha Franklin: The Rise of the Soap Opera Children of the Gospel Church

Aretha Franklin was one of the most iconic singers of all time. Her powerful voice and soulful performances earned her the title "Queen of Soul." But behind the scenes, Franklin was also a devoted Christian who found solace and strength in her faith.

Franklin was born in Memphis, Tennessee, in 1942. Her father was a Baptist minister, and her mother was a gospel singer. Franklin began singing in church at a young age, and she quickly developed a powerful voice. By the time she was a teenager, she was singing professionally. She released her first album in 1956.

The Fan Who Knew Too Much: Aretha Franklin, the Rise of the Soap Opera, Children of the Gospel Church, and Other Meditations

by Anthony Heilbut

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5328 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	368 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE

In the 1960s, Franklin's career began to take off. She signed with Atlantic Records and released a string of hit songs, including "Respect," "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," and "Chain of Fools." Franklin's music was a powerful force for change during the Civil Rights Movement, and she became a symbol of black pride.

In addition to her music career, Franklin was also a successful soap opera actress. She starred in the CBS soap opera "One Life to Live" from 1973 to 1983. Franklin played the role of Zacharia Martin, a single mother who struggled to raise her children. Franklin's performance was praised by critics.

Franklin's faith was an important part of her life. She was a member of the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, where she sang in the choir. Franklin also supported many charities and causes, including the fight against AIDS and poverty.

Franklin died in 2018 at the age of 76. She left behind an immense legacy of music, activism, and faith.

Aretha Franklin's legacy is one that will continue to inspire generations to come. She was a true pioneer who used her voice to make a difference in the world.

Additional Information

• Franklin was married four times. Her first husband was Ted White, whom she married in 1961. They divorced in 1969.
• Franklin's second husband was Glynn Turman, whom she married in 1978. They divorced in 1984.
• Franklin's third husband was Ken Cunningham, whom she married in 1989. They divorced in 2005.
• Franklin's fourth husband was Willie Wilkerson, whom she married in 2012. They were married until Franklin's death in 2018.
• Franklin had four children: Clarence Franklin Jr., Edward Franklin, Kecalf Cunningham, and Ted White Jr.
• Franklin won 18 Grammy Awards during her career.
• Franklin was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005.

Aretha Franklin was a true icon. Her music, her activism, and her faith left an indelible mark on the world. She was a pioneer who used her voice to make a difference, and her legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.

The Fan Who Knew Too Much: Aretha Franklin, the Rise of the Soap Opera, Children of the Gospel Church, and Other Meditations

by Anthony Heilbut

4.2 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	5328 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	368 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

FREE