Saturday, September 1, 2012

Exploring The Appeal Of Female Soul Singers

By Ladonna Franklin


While most soul singers are men, there have been quite a few female soul singers that have been notable over the years, with their voices and style. Soul originated in the United States, particularly in the African American churches and gospel music. The combined enthusiasm and soaring vocals made for a new genre of music that is still often imitated today.

Arguably one of the greatest of all time is Aretha Franklin, also dubbed The Queen of Soul. Over her long career she has collected 20 Grammy Awards and as many number one singles, including the iconic song "Respect", which was originally written for singer Otis Redding. Franklin's recording of this song sent her career to the sky, and made her a household name.

Another singer who is also a Motown legend is Gladys Knight. Originally the lead singer for Gladys Knight and the Pips, she was called the Empress of Soul, for her smooth voice and warm lyrics, espousing love and feelings. Her most popular hit single was "Midnight Train to Georgia", which made her famous all over the world. She is still active today and inspires many new up and coming singers.

Etta James had a career that spanned many years, many generations and many musical genres, including gospel, pop and jazz. She kept people guessing and reinvented herself several times to revive her career. Her most popular song, "At Last" was iconic and performed by Beyonce at the presidential inaugural ball for President Obama and First Lady Michelle, who danced to it. That performance brought Etta's music, as well as other women of the era back into focus.

Probably one of the most well known and easily recognizable women in this type of music remains to be the former Anna Mae Bullock, known as Tina Turner. Originally in an act with her then-husband, Ike, called the Ike and Tina Revue, her extremely high energy and powerhouse voice drew in the crowds. Once she left the abusive Ike, Tina's career took off, and she became one of the most popular artists around, and she has also acted in a few movies to her credit.

More modern day singers include the late Amy Winehouse, a Brit whose retro look and smoky voice drew in millions of fans all over the world. She won 5 Grammy awards for her 2006 album Back to Black, and unfortunately fame and fortune could not satiate the addictions that eventually claimed her life at the young age of 27.

Another Londoner, Adele is a superstar of the highest magnitude. She has a beautiful voice and deep lyrics that make people think. She became a star quickly by way of a My Space video, proving how powerful social media can be in the life of a struggling artist. Adele's appeal is undeniable, and she has millions of fans all over the world, of all different ages and socioeconomic backgrounds. She has won many awards and at a young age is likely to have many more in her musical career.

The era of female soul singers is doing anything but waning, with the previous generations opening the doors for the up and coming singers of the future. By paving the way with their trials and tribulations, these soulful women have set the bar high for today's young women desiring a musical career.




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