A Tribute to Aretha in Song – at the State Theater New Jersey

Apr 1, 2023 by

By Sue Weston and Susan Rosenbluth –  Two Sues On The Aisle

RESPECT, the unifying song for the women’s movement, is also the name of a musical tribute to legendary performer Aretha Franklin, the “Queen of Soul” (1942-2018). In 1987 she was the first female artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with 18 Grammys. On Nov. 9, 2005, former President George W. Bush presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the nation’s highest civilian award.

Franklin was a living legend, making her story appropriate for March, Women’s History Month, as well as showing how one voice can rise above the chaos as the champion for equality.

Telling Her Story

Aretha Franklin was born on March 25, 1942, in Memphis, Tennessee, to Baptist preacher Reverend Clarence La Vaughan “C. L.” Franklin and Barbara Siggers Franklin, a gospel singer. She had music in her DNA and an amazing 5-octave range. Her voice was strong, empowering, and memorable. Songs like “Natural Woman,” “Think,” “I Say a Little Prayer,” “Respect,” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman are synonymous with the 60s, a decade of change. Franklin helped define the modern female, as strong, invincible, and loving but not to be taken for granted.

The show, billed as a concert-like experience, shines a light on the positives-side of Franklin’s life, showcasing her music in a historical context. The show is biographically light and contextually powerful. The stage is simple. Featuring four talented singers, YahZarah, Meghan Dawson, Terrell Foster-James, and Chela Faulkner who share Franklin’s story.

The performer’s powerful voices fill the theater accompanied by a fabulous band. Behind them is a backdrop of projected images, including clips from the headlines, home movies, and photo albums, some even in black-and-white. Connecting Franklin’s music with the historical context.

A Lifetime of Accomplishments

Franklin’s life was influenced by the loss of her mother at a young age. When she was six, her parents separated, and four years later her mother died of a heart attack. She developed a close relationship with her father who told her that she “would sing for kings and queens.” Franklin did just that, in 2002, she performed for the Queen of England at Elizabeth’s 50th Jubilee. And ‘presidents’ she performed at the pre-inauguration concerts for Jimmy Carter in 1977, Bill Clinton in 1993, Barack Obama in 2009, and at a memorial service for the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Although her life had its ups and downs, the show commemorates the highlights, interspersed with personal information, for example, she carried a purse to collect her payment before performing, and gave up air travel after a turbulent plane ride. These snippets made her relatable.

Receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom

Her Music

Franklin could not read music, but her ear was infallible once she heard a song she could immediately sing and play. In the 60s she recorded for Columbia Records as a jazz singer tinged with blues and gospel, a combination that incorporated her vocal arrangements performed with her backup singers.

The Tribute exposed audiences to the grandeur and the glamor of Aretha a musical legend. This was one of the many performances that can be seen at the State Theater New Jersey.

The State Theater

The State Theater New Jersey was built in 1921 as a silent film and vaudeville palace. In 1988 it reopened as a non-profit performing arts center. After recent renovations, it celebrated its 100th anniversary with upgraded HVAC, a new elevator with access to all levels, and brand-new theater seats.  While the walls and ceilings are filled with reliefs, period motives, splendor, and history.

Discover Local Theater

Discover The State Theater New Jersey located on Livingston Street in New Brunswick. Enjoy a constant stream of Broadway-quality performances. Their programs include dance, comedy, and concerts. These limited-run programs are for a few days or weeks, followed by a different art form, exposing patrons to limitless possibilities; providing something for everyone.

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