La Diva cover

La Diva

Aretha Franklin · 1979

44 min · 10 tracks · funk · jazz · pop rock

A smooth blend of soul and pop that showcases Aretha Franklin's powerful vocals and emotional depth.

Why this album works

Best for
steady mid-tempo grooves uplifting themes of resilience emotional depth in vocals
Context
Released in 1979, 'La Diva' was Aretha Franklin's first album for Arista Records, marking a significant shift after her years with Atlantic. This transition came during a period where Franklin sought to revitalize her career amid changing musical landscapes, following the commercial downturn of her previous releases in the late 1970s.
If you like
funk, jazz, pop rock

La Diva is an album by Aretha Franklin, released in 1979. A smooth blend of soul and pop that showcases Aretha Franklin's powerful vocals and emotional depth. 'La Diva' features a mix of styles emblematic of Franklin's versatility, yet it didn't achieve significant chart success, peaking only at #50 on the Billboard 200. Despite this, the album is appreciated for its artistic integrity and is often viewed as a pivotal moment in her evolution as an artist navigating a new label and sound. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does La Diva sound like?

A smooth blend of soul and pop that showcases Aretha Franklin's powerful vocals and emotional depth. Rooted in funk and jazz.

What makes La Diva by Aretha Franklin notable?

'La Diva' features a mix of styles emblematic of Franklin's versatility, yet it didn't achieve significant chart success, peaking only at #50 on the Billboard 200. Despite this, the album is appreciated for its artistic integrity and is often viewed as a pivotal moment in her evolution as an artist navigating a new label and sound. Released in 1979, 'La Diva' was Aretha Franklin's first album for Arista Records, marking a significant shift after her years with Atlantic. This transition came during a period where Franklin sought to revitalize her career amid changing musical landscapes, following the commercial downturn of her previous releases in the late 1970s.

Who is La Diva for?

La Diva works well if you're into steady mid-tempo grooves, uplifting themes of resilience and emotional depth in vocals.

How many songs are on La Diva?

La Diva has 10 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Tracklist

10 tracks·44:28

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Ladies Only 5:15
  • 2 It’s Gonna Get a Bit Better Standout 5:20
  • 3 What If I Should Ever Need You 3:32
  • 4 Honey I Need Your Love Standout 2:45
  • 5 I Was Made for You 4:03
  • 6 Only Star 5:04
  • 7 Reasons Why 3:55
  • 8 You Brought Me Back to Life Standout 4:24
  • 9 Half a Love 5:25
  • 10 The Feeling 4:45

Release Date

January 1, 1979

Genre

funk, jazz, pop rock

More albums in funk

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

44 min 28 sec