By: Pauline Millard It's been
40 years since Aretha Franklin belted out her classic song, 'Respect' and The Detroit Free-Press put together an incredible multimedia package to honor the song and the people behind it.
'Respect,' which was written by Otis Redding, was actually recorded once before Franklin got to it in 1967. A Detroit band called The Rationals took a stab at it in 1966, but the recording lacked the punch that Franklin brought.
Could there have been, however, more punch? In an interview with Franklin's son, Teddy Richards, he mentions that on the day she recorded 'Respect,' Franklin had a cold. If you listen closely to the first time she sings, "What you need, you know I got it" she squeaks on the word "need." For whatever reason, producers never went back and fixed it.
The Free-Press also weaves in the important historical context from which the song arose. 'Respect' wasn't just a song Redding wrote, but the lyrics were rooted in the frustrations of the black community at the time.
In addition to the main video about Franklin and the song, there are shorter interviews with assorted personalities, such as recording artist Ciara, Free-Press staff writer Kelley L. Carter and Duke Fakir of The Four Tops.
And just to make sure you've been paying attention, the Free-Press added a little quiz to test your Aretha Knowledge.
As a music fan I could certainly sink my teeth into this project. The Free-Press should be lauded not only for their research and reporting skills, but for making this project as slick and professional looking as it is. They hit a truly high note with this one.
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