What is the best Aretha Franklin album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Lady Soul" (1968). It's the most representative of what makes Aretha Franklin worth hearing.

What are the best Aretha Franklin albums?

The essential Aretha Franklin albums include "30 Greatest Hits", "The Best of Aretha Franklin", "Greatest Hits: 1980–1994", "The Atlantic Singles Collection 1967–1970" and "Aretha: With The Ray Bryant Combo" (1961).

How many albums does Aretha Franklin have?

Aretha Franklin has 102 releases in their discography, including 46 albums and 2 EPs.

Photo: Atlantic Records (Life time: Published before 1978 without a copyright notice) · Public domain

Aretha Franklin

Q: Who is Aretha Franklin for?

If you're into funk and jazz, Aretha Franklin is worth your time. With a commanding presence, her music pulses with a steady groove that blends rhythmic intricacy and soulful depth, creating an atmosphere charged with emotion.

With a commanding presence, her music pulses with a steady groove that blends rhythmic intricacy and soulful depth, creating an atmosphere charged with emotion.

funk · jazz · pop rock

United States

Read about Aretha Franklin on Bookshop

Start here

The album

Lady Soul (1968)

Represents Aretha's signature blend of soul, funk, and gospel with a cohesive listening experience that showcases her vocal prowess.

The song

“(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman”

An immediate classic that captures Aretha's emotive delivery and soulful style, making it a strong introduction to her work.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Think" — from A Brand New Me (Aretha Franklin album) (2017)

accessible entry with immediate hook
2

"Respect" — from Aretha's Greatest Hits (1971)

emotional core of the record with strong hook
3

"Respect" — from Respect – The Very Best of Aretha Franklin (2002)

establishes the sonic palette early
4

"Jump to It" — from Jump to It (1982)

establishes the sonic palette early
5

"Respect" — from 30 Greatest Hits

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"Jumpin’ Jack Flash" — from Jewels in the Crown: All-Star Duets with the Queen (2007)

accessible entry with immediate hook

About Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin matters not only for her unparalleled vocal prowess but for her role as a cultural icon who reshaped the landscape of soul and gospel music.

Her music transcended mere entertainment, becoming anthems of empowerment and social change during a pivotal era in American history.

Her music transcended mere entertainment, becoming anthems of empowerment and social change during a pivotal era in American history. Franklin's ability to weave personal narrative into universal themes allowed her to connect deeply with listeners, forging a bond that echoed far beyond the stage. Franklin's approach to music was both visceral and spiritual, drawing from her gospel roots while embracing the rhythmic complexities of funk. She often infused her performances with a raw emotional authenticity, creating a space where joy and sorrow coexist. This unique fusion of genres enabled her to craft songs that feel both sacred and celebratory, offering a rich tapestry of sound that invites listeners to experience the full spectrum of human emotion. In her songwriting, Franklin frequently explores themes of love, resilience, and self-identity, employing a storytelling voice that ranges from confessional to declarative. Her lyrics strike a balance between sincerity and irony, reflecting the complexities of relationships and societal expectations. Each song becomes a powerful narrative that resonates with the struggles and triumphs faced by many.

46 studio albums· 102 total releases· 6 decades· United States