Cultural and Historical Value

The 60’s were a turning point for women. Some women were breaking free of the domestic, motherly gender role of the 50’s, while others remained contained within these expectations. There was still this image of what a woman should be – a conservative, soft-spoken caregiver. After the Summer of Love, it was obvious that women were definitely capable and equal to men. The hippy movement proved that it WAS possible for women and men to exist as equals rather than a woman being under the control of her husband. However, in the real world, women were still expected to be wives and mothers. They were there to have children, and care for their family. Aretha showed the world just how strong a woman could be. She faced the problem many objectified women in the 60's faced - an abusive relationship. She was repeatedly beaten and used by her husband, Ted White. However, Aretha rose above the abuse. She showed women everywhere that they didn't have to fall victim to their partners. With the release of "Never Loved A Man The Way I Love You" women were given a role model - an exemplary model of a woman who overcame degradation and abuse from her husband. The 60’s was a time when women began to speak their minds, act how they wanted to act, and strive to become whatever they wanted to be. Aretha Franklin oozes power, self-confidence, and pride. She is a true diva, with courage and strength - she showed the world what it meant to be a black woman, and earned the respect of everyone in the country.

“Never Loved a Man The Way I Love You” strengthened and revolutionized the African American genre of music that valued gospel roots and projected a strong, proud image of the black woman. During a time when African Americans were finally beginning to be regarded as human beings, Aretha showed the world how valuable, strong, and successful a black woman could be in the world. She made all of America dance. Aretha’s amazing vocals, paired together with the rich, soulful songs presented by Jerry Wexler and Atlantic Records, made “Never Loved A Man The Way I Love You” a cultural revolution for African American music. African Americans always possessed soul. However, there was something special about Aretha that brought this black pride to a new level – sharing it with all of America. As her songs hit the top of the charts, her music became something all of America enjoyed. White people who formerly considered African Americans to be inferior, found themselves dancing to the catchy, soulful “Respect”. It was undeniable that Aretha’s music was magical. Even those who opposed integration and equality had to admit that Aretha was a musical genius. She rose to the top not by conforming to typical popular music, but by using her African American roots, highlighting her cultural pride, and flaunting her amazing talents. Her songs all have strong African American influence - some full of gospel soul, others covers of classics by Ray Charles and Sam Cooke. “A Change Is Gonna Come” was originally a song written about changing racist America. Together, Aretha and Atlantic Records chose this civil rights song, and made it a popular tune that all of America sang along with. Although Aretha tweaked it to convey her own personal journey, it remains a song that represents black pride, and strength to overcome prejudice in America. The fact that this song topped the charts and became a part of pop culture represents the revolutionary change that Aretha brought to America.