Aretha's Best

Of all the Aretha albums I have, this is my favorite. All of the songs are great, and Aretha's voice is super.

Aretha's strongest and most fiery album of the 80's

This was Aretha's follow up to her platinum "Who's Zoomin' Who" album from 1985. Although "Aretha" did not go platinum, it did go gold...and there are a few reasons why.

First, Aretha sings her HEAD off on this album. She hadn't sounded like she was having so much fun on each and every song since the 70's. Aretha's artistry is about so much more than just the high notes...but if you're like me, you like to hear Aretha holler. And holler she does on this set. (Note: this was right about the time that Patti LaBelle made her comeback, so ya KNOW Aretha had to let us know that her throne as the Queen of Soul was still occupied by Her Highness!) Her "churchier," raspier 80's voice is different than what it was when she was younger, but make no mistake -- it's a perfect fit for the songs on this collection, and she sounds absolutely incredible.

The songs! "Aretha" is comprised of an eclectic mix of material, ranging from 60's style pop ("Jimmy Lee"), rock ("Jumpin' Jack Flash"), classic soul ("He'll Come Along"), dance ("Rock-A-Lott"), and power anthems/ballads ("Do You Still Remember," "Look To The Rainbow").

Aretha herself says on the liner notes that this is one of her favorite albums, and it's easy to see why. It's a shame that even though "Aretha" had several hits, the album itself has been overlooked in ensuing years. Don't be one to miss out -- treat yourself to Aretha's most energized CD for Arista to date, and see why Aretha Franklin has been...is...and always will be...the undisputed Queen of Soul.