Aretha Franklin — Quotes

“I'm not just a singer. I'm an entertainer, and I have to entertain.”

— Aretha Franklin · Franklin emphasized her multifaceted artistry beyond vocal performance throughout her career.

“All of the people who preceded me made it possible for me to be here. I want to honor their sacrifices.”

— Aretha Franklin · She spoke about this in reference to earlier generations of Black artists who paved the way during the Civil Rights era.

“You can't fake funk. It either is or it isn't.”

— Aretha Franklin · Franklin used this expression when discussing authenticity and genuine emotion in musical performance.

“I am no bird; and no net ensnares me; I am a free human being with an independent will.”

— Aretha Franklin · She quoted Charlotte Brontë's 'Jane Eyre' to affirm her autonomy and artistic independence.

“Respect is earned, not given.”

— Aretha Franklin · This sentiment reflected her philosophy about personal dignity, which she conveyed throughout interviews and her iconic advocacy work.

“I'm climbing a stairway to heaven.”

— Aretha Franklin · She expressed this spiritual perspective about her life's journey and artistic mission in various interviews.

“The road of life twists and turns and no two directions are ever the same. Yet our lessons come from all the places we've been.”

— Aretha Franklin · Franklin shared this wisdom when reflecting on her complex personal and professional experiences.

“I started out thinking of music as a background thing. But then I realized I could entertain people and help them feel better.”

— Aretha Franklin · She discussed her evolving understanding of her artistic purpose and responsibility to her audiences.