Aretha Franklin - Aretha (LP) - 180g Translucent Green Vinyl

"Aretha" is the thirty-fourth studio album by the legendary Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin. Released on September 30, 1980, by Arista Records, this album marked a significant moment in Franklin's career as it was her first release with Arista after leaving Atlantic Records, where she had spent the previous 13 years.

The album was produced by Arif Mardin, who had previously worked with Franklin during her Atlantic years, and Chuck Jackson. The collaboration with Mardin was particularly noteworthy as he had been instrumental in shaping some of her most iconic recordings in the late 1960s and early 1970s.

"Aretha" features a mix of contemporary R&B, pop, and soul, showcasing Franklin's versatility and ability to adapt to the changing musical landscape of the time. The album includes a variety of covers and original songs, highlighting Franklin's powerful voice and emotive delivery.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "United Together," which was released as the lead single. The song, written by Garland Green, Reggie Turner, and Chuck Jackson, is a soulful ballad that showcases Franklin's vocal prowess and emotional depth. It reached number 3 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and number 56 on the Billboard Hot 100.

Another notable track is "What a Fool Believes," a cover of the Doobie Brothers' hit song. Franklin's rendition brings a soulful twist to the pop-rock classic, demonstrating her ability to reinterpret and breathe new life into existing material. Her version of "What a Fool Believes" was well-received and showcased her unique talent for making any song her own.

The album also features "I Can't Turn You Loose," a high-energy cover of the Otis Redding classic. Franklin's version is infused with her signature style, blending gospel influences with a contemporary R&B sound. This track, along with others on the album, highlights her ability to bridge the gap between different musical genres.

"Aretha" received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised Franklin's vocal performance and the production quality of the album. However, some critics noted that the album did not quite reach the heights of her earlier work with Atlantic Records. Despite this, "Aretha" was a commercial success, peaking at number 47 on the Billboard 200 and number 6 on the Billboard R&B Albums chart.

The album's success helped to re-establish Franklin's presence in the music industry during a time when her career was experiencing a resurgence. It also set the stage for her continued success throughout the 1980s, including her subsequent albums with Arista Records.

In summary, "Aretha" is a significant album in Aretha Franklin's discography, marking her transition to a new record label and showcasing her ability to adapt to the evolving musical landscape. With standout tracks like "United Together" and "What a Fool Believes," the album highlights Franklin's unparalleled vocal talent and her enduring influence on the world of music. While it may not have reached the iconic status of her earlier work, "Aretha" remains a testament to the Queen of Soul's enduring legacy and her ability to captivate audiences with her powerful voice and emotive performances.