Aretha Franklin was an iconic American singer, songwriter, and pianist who became known as the "Queen of Soul" for her powerful voice and emotional delivery. Born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1942, she rose to prominence in the 1960s with hits like "Respect," "Think," and "Natural Woman," becoming one of the most influential and celebrated artists in music history. Her legacy spans decades of groundbreaking performances and recordings that continue to inspire musicians and audiences worldwide.