Aretha Franklin, the legendary Queen of Soul, was not shy about her self-appreciation. Renowned photographer Matthew Jordan Smith revealed an interesting anecdote about Franklin during a photoshoot in 2005. Smith was playing music from his playlist, including Mariah Carey, when Franklin unexpectedly declared that her favorite new artist was herself. This revelation led Smith to create a playlist titled “Aretha Cool” featuring Franklin’s songs, which immediately captivated her during the photoshoot.
Smith recalled how Franklin would often start singing along to her own songs during photoshoots, creating a unique and intimate atmosphere. He admitted that he had never seen anyone react to their own music in such a way. Franklin’s love for her music was evident, as she would sing along to her favorite tunes, completely immersed in her own world of sound and rhythm.
The bond between Franklin and Smith extended beyond the photoshoots, with Smith continuing to photograph her until her passing in 2018. He maintained the “Aretha Cool” playlist throughout the years, noting that Franklin never grew tired of hearing her own songs. This deep connection and reverence for her music inspired Smith to compile an art photo book titled “Aretha Cool,” a testament to Franklin’s unapologetic self-love and musical genius.
The upcoming release of “Aretha Cool” on March 15 serves as a tribute to the enduring legacy of Aretha Franklin. Smith’s intimate portrayal of the Queen of Soul captures her essence as a powerful and confident artist who found solace and joy in her own music. The playlist, available on Spotify, provides a glimpse into Franklin’s world, where self-appreciation and musical immersion were synonymous with her identity as a groundbreaking icon. Franklin’s unapologetic self-love and devotion to her craft continue to inspire generations of artists and music lovers worldwide.
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