Memphis, Tennessee (March 25, 1942 -August 16, 2018) age 76 yrs

Aretha Louise Franklin was an American singer, songwriter, civil rights activist, actress, and pianist. She began her career as a child singing gospel at New Bethel Baptist Church, Michigan, where her father C.L. Franklin was minister. Aretha Franklin was a multiple Grammy winner and known as the “Queen of Soul.” She was celebrated for hits like “Respect,” “Freeway of Love,” and “I Say a Little Prayer.” In 1987, Franklin became the first female artist to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. She is one of the most honored artists in Grammy Award history, winning her 18th honor in 2008.