Aretha Franklin was one of the most iconic musicians of the 20th century, known for her soulful voice and powerful performances. In this post, we will explore some of the lesser-known aspects of her life, including her family background, the tragic loss of her mother, and her marriages.
Aretha Franklin’s Siblings
Aretha Franklin had four siblings, all of whom were important figures in her life. Her eldest sister, Erma, was also a singer and songwriter, and the two sisters frequently performed together. Her other siblings were Carolyn, who was also a singer, and two brothers, Vaughn and Cecil. The family shared a deep love for music, and it was a significant part of their lives.
Tragic Loss of Aretha Franklin’s Mother
When Aretha Franklin was just ten years old, her mother, Barbara Siggers Franklin, passed away from what is believed to have been a heart attack. Barbara had been a prominent gospel singer in her own right, and her death was a devastating blow to the family. Aretha found solace in music and began performing in her father’s church, where he was a prominent minister.
When Aretha Franklin’s Marriage
Aretha Franklin was married twice in her life. Her first marriage was to Ted White, whom she divorced after a tumultuous relationship. Her second marriage was to actor Glynn Turman, and the couple remained together for several years before divorcing amicably. Although her marriages were not without their challenges, Aretha remained a deeply loving and passionate person, whose music and legacy continue to inspire new generations.
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Aretha Louise Franklin |
| Birthdate | March 25, 1942 |
| Place of Birth | Memphis, Tennessee, USA |
| Siblings | Erma, Carolyn, Vaughn, Cecil |
| Mother | Barbara Siggers Franklin |
| Mother’s Death | Died when Aretha was 10 years old, cause unknown |
| Father | Reverend Clarence LaVaughn Franklin |
| Marriages | Ted White (1961-1969), Glynn Turman (1978-1984) |
| Children | Clarence, Edward, Ted White Jr., Kecalf Cunningham |
| Career Highlights | 18 Grammy Awards, 100+ charted singles, first female inducted into Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, named the “Queen of Soul” |
| Notable Songs | Respect, Chain of Fools, Think, (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman, I Say a Little Prayer, Freeway of Love |
| Death | August 16, 2018 |
| Age at Death | 76 |
| Cause of Death | Pancreatic cancer |
| Legacy | One of the greatest singers of all time, a cultural icon and inspiration to generations of musicians and fans. |
Conclusion
Despite the personal tragedies and challenges that marked her life, Aretha Franklin remained a resilient and inspiring figure, whose music and legacy continue to touch the hearts of millions. Her siblings, mother, and marriages all played a significant role in shaping the person she became, and her enduring legacy is a testament to her remarkable talent and spirit.