Soul Fixin'

Aretha, Aretha, Aretha!!!
As I read and watch the coverage of the upcoming inauguration, I'm reminded of Aretha Franklin. Aretha will lend her voice to Barack's big day. A woman who has sang for Dr. King, kings and queens, and former Presidents, will be on hand as Barack Obama enters the history books. It's no suprise the Obama family enjoys Aretha's music. My love affair with Aretha began about a decade ago thanks to I Never Loved A Man The Way I Love You. There have been a few bumps in the road; down right horrible recordings, a silly feud with Beyonce and Tina Turner, and questionable wardrobe choices but the love is still strong. On the eve of Aretha's historic performance, here are a trio of overlooked Aretha tunes from her days at Atlantic Records. Aretha and then husband/manager wrote the tell-it-like-it-is 'Good To Me As I Am To You' for 1968's Lady Soul. Aretha transformed Gamble & Huff's 'A Brand New Me' into a jazzy declaration of new beginnings. Aretha's voice soars to unheard heights on the Curtis Mayfield produced 'I Get High' from 1976's Sparkle.
Aretha Franklin 'Good To Me As I Am To You'
Aretha Franklin 'A Brand New Me'
Aretha Franklin 'I Get High'