On August 16, 2018, Aretha Franklin, the legendary American singer, songwriter, actress and civil rights activist, died at the age of 76. She is survived by four sons, Clarence, Edward, Teddy and Kecalf. Known as the “Queen of Soul,” Franklin began her career as a gospel singer, where she released her first album at the age of 14. She went on to become a prolific pop, soul, rhythm and blues (R&B) singer, with a career that spanned several decades. Aretha’s influence can be seen in music, film, and politics. Her music was widely covered by other artists, and she found success throughout her career, with hits such as “Respect”, “Chain of Fools”, “A Natural Woman”, and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.” She was the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, and she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by George W Bush in 2005. Aretha’s legacy will live on through her music and activism. She will be remembered as one of the greatest musical artists of all time, and her work will continue to inspire for generations to come.