Aretha Franklin: The Queen of Soul

by Penelope J. Stokes and Mark Bego

Book Overview

A frank examination of Aretha Franklin, Mark Bego's definitive biography traces her career accomplishments from her beginnings as a twelve-year-old member of a church choir in the early 1950s, to recording her first album at the age of fourteen and signing a major recording contract at eighteen, right up through untimely passing in 2018. Originally positioned to become a gospel star in her father's Detroit church, Aretha had a privileged urban upbringing;;stars...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1510745076
• ISBN13: 9781510745070
• Release Date: September 2018
• Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing
• Length: 456 Pages
• Weight: 1.30 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.5" x 6.0" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

GOOD OVERALL LOOK AT THE QUEEN OF SOUL'S CAREER

Bego's biography is a balanced view of the multiple-decades-long career of the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. It begins with her gospel-influenced childhood and takes the reader on a resilient career track of the probably the greatest female soul vocalist of the 20th century. It also includes an exhaustive discography of both her music catalog and Grammy awards. The true fan will laugh, empathize, and be touched by the singer's personality, commentary, and quotes. No fan should be without this volume.

Forever a Queen

After reading Ms. Frankin's lackluster autobiography, it was almost refreshing to read an unbiased account of the legendary life and career of this soul matriarch. This book is very detailed in tracking the career of Ms. Franklin and tells of the accolades as well as the lowpoints in her career. I found most comical the section in relation to Aretha's infamous fashion sense, but ultimately appauled by that tasteless photo of her in a one peice bathing suit with fishnet stockings showing her backside in concert. How disgusting was that! I, too, hailed the Queen after her riveting performance of "Nessum Dorma" on the 1998 Grammys and I continue to follow her career in hopes that her legacy continues to be upheld with the upmost respect. I hope that in twenty years, the author can add another update of amazing accomplishments to this edition. Good read.

For students of twentieth century American music history

Now in an updated and expanded edition, Aretha Franklin: The Queen Of Soul is the compelling and inspiring biography of one of the most amazing, remarkable singers with a five-octave voice. The many challenges Aretha Franklin has faced in her life, from parental abandonment to the illness of her sister, are candidly recounted, along with her will to survive and prosper, which can clearly be heard in her soul-stirring music. Highly recommended reading for students of twentieth century American music history, as well as a "must" for all Aretha Franklin fans.