Aretha Franklin Was One in a Million in Many Ways

Normally we dedicate this section to female rising stars and newsmakers in the entertainment and business space but the loss of Motown legend and political activist Aretha Franklin last week begs for a few minutes to share her accomplishments.

The oddest fun fact is the most obvious; Aretha died on the exact same day of Elvis 41 days apart. Her biggest song “Respect” was a cover of the same song performed by the late Otis Redding in 1965. It’s amazing that Aretha was able to achieve so much in her life as she was the mother of two children before the age of 15, her first son born when she was only 12 years old.

Aretha was a significant figure in the civil rights movement, working tirelessly behind the scenes, much of her music serving as an inspiration to those on the front lines of the fight for equality during the 60s.

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, three 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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