Motown Museum to Honor Aretha Franklin

The ‘Queen of Soul’ has died at the age of 76
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Photograph Courtesy of Wikimedia commons

Aretha Franklin, also known as the “Queen of Soul,” passed away Thursday evening at the age of 76 after fighting a battle with pancreatic cancer. The singer was at her Detroit home and surrounded by family and loved ones. To pay tribute to the icon, the Motown Museum, located near the city’s New Center neighborhood, is celebrating her life, legacy, and great contribution to music.

“Aretha was an international music icon and unmatched talent who deserved every bit of her status as the Queen of Soul,” says Robin Terry, chairwoman and CEO of Motown Museum, in a statement. “While she was never signed to the Motown label, there is no question she was a part of the Motown family.”

The museum, which was originally the studio and home of Motown Records’ Berry Gordy, will play Franklin’s music from Aug. 17-19. Some of the biggest hits from the 18-time Grammy Award winner’s career include “A Natural Woman,” “Respect,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” “Chain of Fools,” and “Son of a Preacher Man.” Visitors will also have the chance to leave their condolences in a guest book, which the museum will send to Franklin’s family.

“She performed at our Motown Museum 20th anniversary gala and it was an unforgettable night and performance,” Terry says. “Her legacy will continue to inspire and resonate in the souls of Detroiters and her fans around the world. Motown Museum joins the rest of the world in mourning her passing as we celebrate her remarkable life and trailblazing contributions to music.”

For more information, visit motownmuseum.org


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