Aretha Now: The Hidden Jewel of Aretha Franklin's Discography

An in-depth look at an often-overlooked masterwork by the Queen of Soul.

In the late 1960s, a star always shines brighter than the rest — Aretha Franklin. Known for her electrifying voice that sent shockwaves through the industry, her contributions have left a lasting legacy. While albums like I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You and Lady Soul often command attention, there lies a gem hidden within her discography — the 1968 album Aretha Now. Regrettably overlooked, it is a compelling showcase of Aretha's extraordinary talent to weave various musical styles without sounding disjointed or clichéd.

Unpacking the essence of Aretha Now requires diving into the sonic sea it creates. "Think," the album's lead track, is a tidal wave of fast-paced, catchy melodies and empowering lyrics highlighting Franklin's raw, unfiltered vocal agility. Aretha doesn't merely sing; she implores, scolds, loves, and loses, her voice communicating each emotion with a depth and authenticity that few can rival.

Aretha’s interpretation of "I Say a Little Prayer," initially performed by Dionne Warwick, gives us a fresh rendition. Rather than imitating, she ventures in a different direction, infusing the song with her unique brand of soul, her voice soaring and dipping with a richness that captivates. The track "You Send Me" displays an ability to switch from fiery determination to velvety tenderness instantly. Her cover of Don Covay’s “See Saw,” filled with lively brass and background vocals, introduces listeners to a fiery, flirtatious Franklin.

Unlike her earlier works, this album doesn't feel like a random assortment of keys being tried in a lock. Instead, it reads as a well-crafted musical story, with each track a chapter that adds to the entire narrative's richness. From its opening notes to the last lingering chord, Aretha Now presents a cohesive exploration of musical genres. She moves from jazz to Broadway standards and novelty songs easily and confidently, a master at finding the right key every time.

Though not hailed as one of her signature albums, Aretha Now is an essential piece of her musical journey, often not explored in depth. Aretha demonstrates a profound understanding of music, underpinning her tracks with a complexity that makes them ageless. She taps into the heartbeat of her time, layering melodies and harmonies to craft music that, decades later, still pulses with life.

Aretha Franklin’s music leaves a profound impact, transcending the confines of time and genre. Yet, the album Aretha Now is uniquely positioned in her oeuvre. It is a marker of the point in her career where she began to lock in on a distinctly her sound. As listeners, we are privileged to take a step back, appreciate, and admire the skill and soul of one of music's greatest. And in doing so, we discover an album that not only defines Aretha Franklin but stands as a pillar in the edifice of soul music.

Exploring this lesser-known masterpiece reminds us of Aretha's monumental gift and lasting influence on music. Aretha Now is a bold declaration of Franklin’s capability and her rightful place in music history. An essential listen for anyone seeking to understand the breadth of her genius, it's a vivid display of the Queen of Soul at her best, casting a brilliant light that continues to shine in the heart of every music lover.