Soft and Beautiful cover

Released 57 years ago this June

Soft and Beautiful

Aretha Franklin · 1969

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

A lush blend of soul and jazz, enveloped in Aretha Franklin's transcendent vocal warmth.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • reflective moments of quiet introspection
  • steady pacing for thoughtful listening
  • transcendent vocals enveloping the atmosphere
  • ideal for cozy evening relaxation

Maybe skip if you want

  • seeking fast-paced energetic tracks
  • prefer standalone upbeat singles

Where this album fits

Career context
By the time 'Soft and Beautiful' was released in 1969, Aretha Franklin was already a dominant force in music, following her breakthrough with 'I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)' in 1967. This album came during a period of artistic exploration, showcasing her ability to navigate genre boundaries while retaining her soulful essence.
Stylistic neighbors
Gladys Knight· Etta James· Nina Simone

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Only the Lonely 4:55
  • 2 I Wish I Didn’t Love You So 2:55
  • 3 (Ah, the Apple Trees) When the World Was Young 4:44
  • 4 Shangri‐La 3:15
  • 5 A Mother’s Love 2:34
  • 6 My Coloring Book 4:08
  • 7 Jim 2:29
  • 8 Friendly Persuasion (Thee I Love) 2:18
  • 9 But Beautiful 2:57
  • 10 People 4:20

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata