Young, Gifted and Black
Aretha Franklin · 1972
44 min · 12 tracks · funk · jazz · pop rock
A powerful blend of soul and funk, showcasing Aretha's electrifying vocals and poignant lyricism.
Why this album works
This album is significant for its cultural impact during a time of civil rights activism, with the title track becoming an anthem for empowerment. It received critical acclaim and peaked at No. 1 on the R&B chart, reinforcing Franklin's influence on soul music and its intersection with social movements.
- Best for
- steady mid-tempo flow reflective, thoughtful listening sessions emotional vocal performances
- Context
- Released in 1972, 'Young, Gifted and Black' marked a vital point in Aretha Franklin's career as her first album after signing with Atlantic Records. Following the commercial success of her previous works, this album further solidified her status as the 'Queen of Soul', showcasing her artistic range and deepening her connection to social issues.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Crystal Gayle· Dean Martin· Nancy Sinatra· Harry Nilsson· Bob Dylan· Cher· Ella Fitzgerald· Diana Ross
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Oh Me Oh My (I’m a Fool for You Baby) 3:42
- 2 Day Dreaming Standout 3:59
- 3 Rock Steady Standout 3:13
- 4 Young, Gifted and Black Standout 3:34
- 5 All the King’s Horses 3:56
- 6 A Brand New Me 4:26
- 7 April Fools 3:29
- 8 I’ve Been Loving You Too Long 3:36
- 9 First Snow in Kokomo 4:04
- 10 The Long and Winding Road 3:38
- 11 Didn’t I (Blow Your Mind This Time) 3:42
- 12 Border Song (Holy Moses) 3:19
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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