Respect

The Life of Aretha Franklin

By: David Ritz

Narrated by: Brad Raymond

The definitive biography of the Queen of Soul from acclaimed music writer David Ritz.

Aretha Franklin began life as the golden daughter of a progressive and promiscuous Baptist preacher. Raised without her mother, she was a gospel prodigy who gave birth to two sons in her teens and left them and her native Detroit for New York, where she struggled to find her true voice. It was not until 1967, when a white Jewish producer insisted she return to her gospel-soul roots, that fame and fortune finally came via "Respect" and a rapidfire string of hits. She has evolved ever since, amidst personal tragedy, surprise Grammy performances, and career reinventions.

Again and again, Aretha stubbornly finds a way to triumph over troubles, even as they continue to build. Her hold on the crown is tenacious, and in Respect, David Ritz gives us the definitive life of one of the greatest talents in all American culture.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your My Library section along with the audio.

©2014 David Ritz (P)2014 Hachette Audio

Critic reviews

"Narrator Brad Raymond does a great job of portraying the relatives and friends in her life who helped her succeed." (AudioFile)

Thrilling!

This story is intriguing from beginning to end. The writer did an excellent job of research and interviews. We got to hear from immediate family members, close friends, ex-lovers, as well as other geniuses who had a working relationship with this awesome diva. David Ritz didn't hold back: you got Ms. Frankin's bad side as well as her warm and generous side. The diva came off as a well-rounded complex human being. Brad Raymond did a masterful job of relaying this story and keeping the reader engaged. I highly recommend this book.

Respect The Life of Aretha Franklin

Loved the book. Recommended to others really enjoyed the story about her life good and bad how she over came struggles and not others. Helps one to reflect on self.

New To Audio Books

Loved It.
I especially liked the recap at the end.
I have only listened to 5 books so far and this is definitely one of the best.

Insightful

Great look into the life of The Queen, The Diva. The pioneer of woman stardom.

Nothing but RESPECT!

I was constantly hook to the story. I think it was written wonderfully and illustrated the varies dynamics of an incredible human being. I understand her need to control her narrative with her own memoir in the 90s, and the hesitation to disrobe from her armor as the Queen of Soul. However, this book captured the essence of who she was a remarkable human being! This book has truly made me respect her and love her even more. Well Done.

Brutal, at times. But Interesting

The narration was excellent. He kept you engaged from character to character. The story was informative. it does lead me to want to read from my roots to hear Arethas views. It does appear very believable.

Queen?

The story was well told. Clearly she was troubled and delusional. Not to undermine her talent but possibly the title "Queen" did not serve her well as it seemed to create an overinflated ego.

David Ritz did a fine job

This was a wonderful, introspection piece of writing. Great story telling and hidden history.

An American Diva in Denial

This story is an interesting look inside the life of an American musical prodigy and icon who came to realize legendary status despite a shaky beginning and major personality flaws that could have tanked her career. Despite her refusal to reveal her true self and portray a made up facade to the world, her stubborn and sometimes abrasive and volatile personality and her relentless pursuit to stay relevant and current, she become music royalty and the definition of the American soul diva. An unfiltered take on her life and must read for true fans of Ms. Franklin.

I Leared a LOT

I LOVE Aretha and now I understand her more. I appreciate how the author provides the good, bad and ugly and isn't one sided like so many are. I highly recommend this book!