Hi everyone.  Hope you are all well and continue to stay that way during this global health crisis we are facing.  But in addition to protecting your physical wellness, what are you doing to stay mentally healthy today?

(Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

I know we are still facing a serious situation but a new year gives us hope for the new days, seasons, opportunities & moments ahead. Still, music is something that will never change for me. It is my refuge, the most comforting part of my life & the one thing I consistently count on. So until a more normal semblance of life returns, I am going to share a song I listen to that helps me escape the current state of things, if only for a few minutes each day. And if this helps anyone else, even better.

On March 10, 1967 Aretha Franklin released her tenth album, I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You. It was her first on Atlantic Records, and it proved to be a career defining moment. It was the record that established her as “The Queen Of Soul” as the album contained hits including the title track, “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man” and the song that became her anthem, “Respect” (Day 91).

Her chart success continued with 1968’s release, Lady Soul. That album featured the songs “Chain Of Fools”, “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, “Ain’t No Way” and today’s track which was released in March 1968. It hit #5 on the Hot 100 chart and #1 on the R&B chart thanks to another of her immensely powerful vocal performances on one of several songs she co-wrote throughout her career. All hail The Queen.

“I’m praying, take me back
Consider me please
If you walk in that door, I can get up off my knees
I’ve just been so blue“.

Aretha Franklin circa 1977. (Image found online.  Original source unknown.)

Aretha Franklin: “(Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You’ve Been Gone” (1968, written by Aretha Franklin & Ted White).

I do not own the rights to anything.  I am just sharing what I love and how I am coping with you.

Stay well.