Aretha Franklin (1942-2018)
Aretha Franklin (1942-2018) Aretha Louise Franklin was born March 25th, 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee to Barbara and Clarence Franklin. Her father was a Baptist Minister and Circuit Preacher and her mother was an accomplished piano player and vocalist. Aretha’s parents divorced in 1948, due to her father’s infidelities. Her mother moved back to Buffalo with Aretha’s half-brother, returning to visit throughout the year. Barbara died of a heart attack on March 7th, 1952, a short time away from Aretha’s 10th Birthday. After her mother’s death she learned how to play piano by ear and started singing solos at New Bethel. Franklin would also attend public school until her freshman year at Northern High School before because she dropped out early in her Sophomore year. At the age of 12 her father would start managing her and took her along on his “Gospel Caravan” Tours to perform for numerous churches. With his help, she was signed to her first recording deal with J.V.B. Record...