About the song
“Respect” by Aretha Franklin is one of the most powerful and enduring anthems in the history of music. Released on April 29, 1967, as part of her album “I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You,” this song not only catapulted Franklin to international stardom but also became a defining moment in the Civil Rights and feminist movements of the 1960s.
Originally written and recorded by Otis Redding in 1965, the song underwent a transformative change in Franklin’s hands. While Redding’s version was a plea from a desperate man, Franklin’s rendition turned it into a declaration of empowerment and self-worth. This shift in perspective is crucial, as it gave the song an entirely new dimension, resonating deeply with the experiences of women and African Americans at the time.
The release of “Respect” marked a significant turning point in Franklin’s career. Prior to this, she had achieved moderate success, but it was “Respect” that truly established her as the “Queen of Soul.” The song’s success was immediate and immense, reaching number one on both the Billboard Hot 100 and the R&B charts. It earned Franklin two Grammy Awards in 1968 for Best Rhythm & Blues Recording and Best Rhythm & Blues Solo Vocal Performance, Female.
Musically, “Respect” is characterized by its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and dynamic arrangement. The song features a driving rhythm section, powerful horn riffs, and Franklin’s signature piano playing. However, it is her vocal performance that stands out the most. Franklin’s voice is both commanding and soulful, delivering each line with a mixture of strength and emotion that captivates the listener.
The lyrics of “Respect” are straightforward yet profound. The chorus, with its iconic spelling out of “R-E-S-P-E-C-T,” became a rallying cry for those demanding dignity and recognition. Lines like “What you want, baby, I got it; what you need, do you know I got it?” assert confidence and self-assurance. The song’s message is clear: respect is not just desired but demanded.
The social impact of “Respect” extends far beyond its commercial success. It became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement, symbolizing the fight for equality and justice. For African Americans, the song embodied the struggle for civil rights and the demand for respect in a society plagued by racial discrimination. Simultaneously, it resonated with the feminist movement, empowering women to assert their rights and demand equal treatment in a male-dominated world.
Aretha Franklin’s “Respect” has maintained its relevance and influence over the decades. It has been covered and referenced by countless artists across various genres, a testament to its enduring power and universal appeal. The song’s impact is such that it was added to the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress in 2002, recognizing its cultural, historical, and aesthetic significance.
Live performances of “Respect” by Franklin were nothing short of legendary. Her ability to deliver the song with consistent passion and energy made it a highlight of her concerts. One notable performance was during the 1997 Grammy Awards, where Franklin filled in for Luciano Pavarotti and delivered a stunning rendition of “Nessun Dorma,” but her performance of “Respect” at various events always left a lasting impression.
In summary, “Respect” by Aretha Franklin is more than just a song; it is a cultural landmark. With its empowering message, electrifying musical arrangement, and Franklin’s unparalleled vocal performance, it continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering it for the first time, “Respect” remains a timeless anthem of strength, dignity, and empowerment, showcasing the enduring legacy of the Queen of Soul.
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Lyric
Hey, what you want(oo) Baby, I got(oo) What you need(oo) Do you know I got it?(oo) All I’m askin’(oo) Is for a little respect when you come home (just a little bit)Hey baby (just a little bit) when you get home(Just a little bit) mister (just a little bit)I ain’t gonna do you wrong while you’re goneAin’t gonna do you wrong (oo) ’cause I don’t wanna (oo)All I’m askin’ (oo)Is for a little respect when you come home (just a little bit)Baby (just a little bit) when you get home (just a little bit)Yeah (just a little bit)I’m about to give you all of my moneyAnd all I’m askin’ in return, honeyIs to give me my profitsWhen you get home (just a, just a, just a, just a)Yeah baby (just a, just a, just a, just a)When you get home (just a little bit)Yeah (just a little bit) Do it for me now, just a little bitOoo, your kisses (oo)Sweeter than honey (oo)And guess what? (oo)So is my money (oo)All I want you to do (oo) for meIs give it to me when you get home (re, re, re, re)Yeah baby (re, re, re, re)Whip it to me (respect, just a little bit)When you get home, now (just a little bit)R-E-S-P-E-C-TFind out what it means to meR-E-S-P-E-C-TTake care, TCBOh (sock it to me, sock it to meSock it to me, sock it to me)A little respect (sock it to me, sock it to meSock it to me, sock it to me)Whoa, babe (just a little bit)A little respect (just a little bit)I get tired (just a little bit)Keep on tryin’ (just a little bit)You’re runnin’ out of foolin’ (just a little bit)And I ain’t lyin’ (just a little bit)‘spectWhen you come home (re, re, re, re)Or you might walk in (respect, just a little bit)And find out I’m gone (just a little bit)I got to have (just a little bit)A little respect (just a little bit)