Aretha Franklin, a name synonymous with soul, effortlessly blended genres, creating a sound that resonated deeply and moved generations. Her music isn’t just heard; it’s felt, embodying a certain “hey now hey now” energy that’s both assertive and uplifting. This vibrant spirit is palpable in her 1973 album, a collection showcasing her unparalleled vocal prowess and stylistic range.
From the funk-infused grooves of “So Swell When You’re Well” and “Sister from Texas,” Franklin demonstrates her versatility. “Sister from Texas,” a poignant tribute to Esther Phillips, delves into psychedelic textures while maintaining a soulful core. These tracks are imbued with a “hey now hey now” sass, a confident stride that’s undeniably Franklin’s signature.
Then comes “Angel,” a Carolyn Franklin composition that soared to the top of the R&B charts and into pop consciousness. This classic ballad exemplifies the “hey now hey now” power of vulnerability, its solemnity resonating with raw emotion. In contrast, “Mister Spain” tackles the heavy subject of drug abuse with introspective depth. Franklin’s atypical foray into social commentary, focusing on a black man’s struggle with heroin, carries a different kind of “hey now hey now” urgency – a plea for change and redemption.
Bobby Womack’s “That’s the Way I Feel About Cha” transforms into a seven-minute soul exploration in Franklin’s hands. Here, the “hey now hey now” feeling is pure passion, a declaration of love delivered with her iconic cries and wails. The multi-layered background vocals enhance the track’s sultriness, creating an immersive sonic experience.
Her rendition of James Moody’s “Moody’s Mood for Love” is a masterclass in vocal jazz. This isn’t the gentle interpretation many are accustomed to; Franklin’s version is a “hey now hey now” explosion of jazz articulation and control, reminiscent of her early Columbia days. The arrangement swings, but Franklin’s breezy yet intricate phrasing elevates it to another dimension, showcasing her jazz roots with a modern twist.
“Just Right Tonight” dives deep into Delta blues territory, revealing perhaps the most uninhibited vocal performance of Franklin’s career. Fueled by Billy Preston’s electrifying piano solo, the track creates a late-night, smoky atmosphere. Franklin’s vocals are unleashed – growls, shouts, and yelps punctuate lyrics charged with raw eroticism. This is “hey now hey now” energy at its most primal and unrestrained.
This album, in its entirety, encapsulates the dynamic range of Aretha Franklin. It’s a testament to her ability to infuse every song, regardless of genre or theme, with that unmistakable “hey now hey now” spirit – a blend of soulfulness, strength, and sheer vocal brilliance that continues to captivate and inspire.
