The essential Aretha Franklin playlist

Arguably the most iconic song associated with the Queen of Soul, "Respect" is a timeless anthem that is beloved by multiple generations who weren't even born when it was released. It's also the title of a new Aretha Franklin biopic starring Jennifer Hudson. 

Written by Carole King and made legendary by Aretha Franklin, "You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman" is a remarkable showcase of the vocals that make her a legend. 

Released in 1968, "Think" is Aretha Franklin at her sassiest. It also soundtracks that iconic scene in the 1980 film "The Blues Brothers," with Franklin starring as a waitress reminding her husband to think about what he's got at home before running off with Elwood and Jake. 

Aretha Franklin proved she still had one of the most powerful voices in the world of soul with "A Rose Is Still A Rose" in 1998. Produced by Lauryn Hill, the song was a top-ten hit on the R&B charts. 

There is something achingly beautiful about Franklin's interpretation of the classic hymn "Amazing Grace," the title track of her acclaimed 1968 live album recorded alongside the Southern California Community Choir. 

Appearing on her thirtieth full-length album, released in 1985, the fun-loving "Freeway of Love" was an all-genre hit for Franklin. The song's iconic pink Cadillac inspired a procession of 100 pink Cadillacs at Franklin's funeral in 2018. 

Originally recorded by Ben E. King, "Spanish Harlem" was a hit for Aretha Franklin in 1971, selling more than a million copies. 

Written originally for Dionne Warwick by Burt Bacharach and Hal David, Aretha Franklin released her legendary take on the song in 1968. 

Intended for Otis Redding, "Chain of Fools" was an immediate hit for Aretha Franklin after its release in 1967. Arguably one of the best recordings of the song appears on Franklin's 1968 album "Aretha in Paris." 

Aretha Franklin's roots in the gospel choir lend a strong authenticity to her interpretation of classic spiritual "Mary Don't You Weep." Included on her hymn-packed live album "Amazing Grace," the stirring version of the song was recorded at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles. 

The title track of Franklin's tenth full-length album, released in 1967, is a stunning showcase of Franklin's emotive vocals. It was the first major hit of her decades-long career and introduced the world to one of its most powerful new voices. 

A collaboration between franklin and pop duo Eurythmics, "Sisters Are Doin' It For Themselves" was a powerful statement for independent women upon its release in 1985. It was an immediate hit on the dance charts and remains an anthem for strong women everywhere. 

An unexpected hit for Franklin in 1971 featuring Donny Hathaway on backup vocals and piano, "Rock Steady" remains a favorite among devoted Aretha Franklin fans and people who love R&B. 

Aretha Franklin's version of "The Thrill Is Gone," made famous by blues legend B.B. King in 1970, is one of those covers that somehow manages to be just as compelling as the original. 

The title track of her 1970 album, "Spirit In The Dark" was written by Aretha Franklin. The fun, upbeat anthem which features Franklin encouraging the listener to dance notched her a top-ten hit.

Yet another cover in Franklin's extensive catalog, "You're All I Need To Get By" was originally a duet performed by Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. Franklin took on the whole song on her own in 1971, scoring a #3 hit on the Hot Soul Songs chart. 

Co-written by Aretha Franklin's sister Carolyn, "Angel" was a massive success for Franklin, selling nearly a million copies. 

Offering her take on the classic Nina Simone song, Aretha Franklin released "To Be Young, Gifted, and Black" in 1972, adapting its title for her album. 

A minor hit for Franklin in 1968, her version of "Since You've Been Gone" on "Aretha In Paris" is an absolute must for any Aretha playlist. 

Appearing on her legendary album "Lady Soul," "Good to Me As I Am to You" is a seriously empowering ballad. "Starting today, tomorrow, and forevermore, if you can't find it in your heart to do for me," she sings. "Then, baby, just don't darken my front door." Amen!