Album of the Day

Technically, Aretha Franklin had already “arrived” by the time of her second Atlantic album – ARETHA ARRIVES was released in the wake of her breakthrough hit “Respect.” But the 1967 collection did make it clear that this was a talent destined to last. Aretha's magnificent voice works wonders on 11 songs ranging from blues and country chestnuts like “Going Down Slow” and “Night Life” to more recent rock (“Satisfaction”), and the Queen of Soul added another jewel to her crown with Top 10 single “Baby, I Love You.” As on her label debut, producer Jerry Wexler marshaled such session aces as King Curtis and Spooner Oldham in support, but Franklin's singing and piano playing could stand confidently on their own. Released 50 years ago today, ARETHA ARRIVES captures one of the 20th century's defining vocalists in peak form.