Earlier in the week we braced ourselves for the worst of news, learning that Aretha Franklin might be near the end, being treated in hospice care in the Motor City. Now our worst fears have been realized, as Aretha Franklin has died in Detroit, surrounded by friends and family at the age of 76,
Aretha was actually born in Memphis TN, moving with her family to Detroit before she was 5. Her father was a pastor on a mission; tending to the new flocks of southern born African Americans moving to the Motor City for automotive jobs. Aretha sang in her father’s choir but ultimately realizing that her audience would be much larger than a church.
Aretha Franklin was the 1st woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, is a member of the UK, Gospel, Rhythm and Blues and Buffalo Halls of Fame, earned 17 normal Grammys, 3 additional special Grammys, three American Music, and one Critics Choice award. Outside of music she was also honored it her own Hollywood Walk of Fame star, and the Presidential Medal of Freedom award in 2005.
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