Posts tagged "songs"

Aretha Frankline – Queen of Soul

Aretha Franklin
1942 –
birthplace – Detroit, Michigan

“Queen of Soul”

R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Respect. That word became very important to black people in the 1960′s. Aretha Franklin, the singer who sang about it,earned the respect of everyone who heard her.

Beautiful black voices were always part of Aretha’s life. Her father was a well-known preacher. Famous black singers like Dinah Washington, Mahalia Jackson, and B. B. King often visited her home. Music was important part of Aretha’s life, too.

When Aretha was 12, she made her first record. By the time she graduated from high school, she knew that she wanted to be a professional singer. At first, she sang only gospel songs. But later she began to sing popular music. Soon, everyone was singing her songs and everyone knew who she was. In 1967, she recorded a number of chart-topping songs. Aretha Franklin became known as the “Queen of Soul.” Ever since then, she has been one of the best known singers in the United States.

“Chain of Fools” and “Never Loved a Man” are just two of Aretha’s popular songs.

Duke Ellington – Take the A Train

Duke Ellington
1899 – 1974
birthplace – Washington, DC

“Take the A Train”

Duke Ellington (born Edward Kennedy Ellington) was a great conductor and composer. His special style of music made him famous around the world. He created jazz songs and orchestra music that influenced many musicians and attracted millions of fans.

As a youngster, Duke showed talent as a pianist. He didn’t like to practice, but he did. His friends began to call him “Duke” because he liked to dress in fancy clothes.

Music became Duke’s full-time job when he was 18. He became the leader of his own band when he moved to New York City. He soon became a star.

Duke received many awards, and played for kings, queens, and presidents of the United States. He wrote over 1,000 songs and composed music for Broadway shows. He performed in nightclubs as well as concert halls in many countries.

“Take the A Train” and “Sophisticated Lady” are two of Duke Ellington’s most popular songs. The world has been made richer by the music created by the “Duke.”