The One Song That Made Aretha Franklin a Natural Woman—And Two Others That Reveal Her True Heart
OPINION: This article may contain commentary which reflects the author's opinion.
Aretha Franklin, the undisputed “Queen of Soul,” was more than a powerful voice—she was a storyteller, a bearer of emotion, and an embodiment of resilience. Through her music, Franklin conveyed not only the struggles of her life but also the beauty, strength, and joy of womanhood. Three songs in particular stand out: one that cemented her identity as a natural woman and two that offer a glimpse into her true heart.
The Song That Made Her a Natural Woman
“(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” released in 1967 on her album Lady Soul, remains one of Franklin’s most iconic performances. Written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin at the request of Atlantic Records producer Jerry Wexler, the song became an anthem of empowerment and identity. Franklin’s soaring vocals, supported by her sisters Erma and Carolyn, delivered a chorus that resonated with women around the world, blending strength and vulnerability into a single, unforgettable statement.
The track’s influence is undeniable. It climbed to No. 8 on the US charts, entered the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1999, and was celebrated as a defining anthem of womanhood. In one particularly poignant moment in 2015, Franklin performed the song at the Kennedy Center Honors in front of Carole King and President Obama, leaving the audience—and the president—in tears. It was not just a performance; it was a living testament to the power of music to express the essence of being human.
Two Songs That Reveal Her True Heart
If “Natural Woman” established Franklin’s identity, then “Think” and “Ain’t No Way” offered a window into her personal struggles and emotional depth.
“Think,” co-written by Franklin and her then-husband Ted White, is a fiery declaration of independence. Released in 1968, the song reflected the turbulence of their marriage, which ended in divorce a year later amid allegations of abuse. The lyrics combine defiance and longing, capturing the complexities of love and liberation. Decades later, Franklin’s reprisal of “Think” for The Blues Brothers proved that its message of empowerment was timeless.
On the other hand, “Ain’t No Way,” penned by Franklin’s sister Carolyn, reveals a more vulnerable side. Also released in 1968 on Lady Soul, the song channels heartbreak and unreciprocated love, with Franklin’s voice climbing from melancholy to a cathartic crescendo. Backed by Cissy Houston and The Sweet Inspirations, the track’s haunting harmonies and dramatic delivery echo the emotional toll of Franklin’s personal life, including the challenges of her early marriages and the weight of her public persona.
A Legacy of Soul and Authenticity
Together, these three songs—“Natural Woman,” “Think,” and “Ain’t No Way”—offer a snapshot of Aretha Franklin’s artistry and the life experiences that shaped her. They are more than hits; they are chapters of a story, capturing the duality of joy and pain, strength and vulnerability. Through them, Franklin didn’t just sing—she bared her soul, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire and resonate across generations.
