Aretha Franklin: The Atlantic Singles Collection review – Life after death

In 1967, Aretha Franklin had her first top 10 single with I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You) and for the next three years, she churned out the hits, going from a relatively unknown singer from Memphis, Tennessee, whose previous songs mostly lived in the bottom of the charts, to a worldwide superstar. The Atlantic Singles Collection 1967-1970 chronicles her rise and doubles up as neat snapshots of an incredible career. With a voice that practically carries the secrets of the world, she summons the feelings of love, loss and happiness in one note. Her textured voice can be soft and pleading, as on Prove It, but on Think, written by Franklin herself, she takes full command on a song that promotes independence and empowerment. From very well-known singles like her 1967 cover of Otis Redding's Respect to the 1968 single Say a Little Prayer, this collection contains some of her biggest hits. Without a doubt, Franklin is one of the greatest and classiest singers of all time and if anything is weighing on your heart, this soulful collection will lighten the load.