
“Respect” by Aretha Franklin, one of the most iconic and influential songs in music history:
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🎤 1. Song Basics
Title: Respect
Artist: Aretha Franklin
Released: April 1967
Album: I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You
Genre: Soul, R&B
Writers: Originally written and recorded by Otis Redding in 1965, but Aretha’s version in 1967 completely reimagined it—and became the definitive one.
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🎧 2. Lyrics & Meaning
Aretha transformed Respect from a man’s plea for loyalty into a bold feminist and civil rights anthem.
🔥 Key Lines:
“R-E-S-P-E-C-T, find out what it means to me!”
– Assertive, rhythmic spelling turned into a universal demand for equality.
“Take care, TCB!” (Taking Care of Business)
– Added by Aretha and her sisters (The Sweet Inspirations), these call-and-response ad libs weren't in Otis Redding’s version.
🔎 The Message:
It's not just about respect in a romantic relationship—it's about demanding dignity as a Black woman, as a partner, and as a human being.
Aretha redefined the word “respect” into a declaration of self-worth, empowerment, and equality.