I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You Review: The Queen of Soul Arrives
9.5/10 — Aretha Franklin - I Never Loved a Man the Way I Love You (1967)
Pros
- Franklin's powerhouse vocals
- 'Respect'
- Great band
Cons
- Short
- A few lesser covers
After years at Columbia, Aretha Franklin recorded for Atlantic in Muscle Shoals and New York, with producer Jerry Wexler. It made her a star.
What works
‘Respect’ is an anthem, ‘I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)’ is raw and gutsy, and ‘Do Right Woman, Do Right Man’ is heartbreaking. Franklin’s vocals and piano are phenomenal, and the band is superb.
Where it falters
It’s short at around 30 minutes, and a few covers are less distinctive.
Verdict
A fierce, glorious soul landmark.
