In 1967, Aretha Franklin introduced “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman.” It became a symbol of women’s empowerment. The song talks about finding your true self and feeling worthy.
Carole King and Gerry Goffin wrote the lyrics. They celebrate being a natural woman. It’s a song about finding your true self and feeling empowered.
Aretha Franklin’s version of the song is unforgettable. Her voice and the music together made it a classic. It showed the power of music to express feelings and ideas.
The song is about embracing who you are. It’s a message of self-love and acceptance. It’s a song that has touched many hearts.
Many artists have covered this song. Carole King, Celine Dion, and Mary J. Blige have all performed it. Each brought their own style to the song.
For more on this song, check out this comprehensive overview.
Key Takeaways
- Aretha Franklin’s “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman” was released in 1967.
- The song, written by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, has become an iconic female anthem.
- Its theme of self-identity and affirmation resonated with broader social movements.
- The song has been covered by numerous artists, extending its legacy.
- Aretha’s unique rendition has been celebrated in various media, including commercials and live performances.
The Creation of “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman”
The song “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman” was a team effort by Carole King and Gerry Goffin, with Jerry Wexler’s guidance. It was released in September 1967 by Aretha Franklin. The song quickly became a hit, capturing the spirit of the time and empowering women everywhere.
How Carole King and Gerry Goffin Composed the Song
Carole King and Gerry Goffin wrote this anthem for Jerry Wexler. King, known for her melodies, quickly came up with the music. Goffin’s lyrics captured the essence of a woman’s self-worth and authenticity. This song has been recorded by many, including George Benson, Rod Stewart, and Céline Dion.
The Influence of Jerry Wexler
Jerry Wexler’s input was key in shaping the song’s impact. He suggested a theme of female autonomy, linking it to the Civil Rights movement. Aretha Franklin’s performance in 2015 at the Kennedy Center Honors showed the song’s lasting power. President Obama was visibly moved, highlighting the song’s emotional depth.
- Released in September 1967, the song became an immediate staple in Aretha Franklin’s expansive repertoire.
- It was featured on her third Atlantic album, “Lady Soul,” released in January 1968.
- In 1971, Carole King’s version closed her landmark album “Tapestry”
- Even today, the natural woman song meaning continues to embody themes of contentment and self-confidence
For more details on Aretha Franklin’s influence and other notable performances, you can read this full article.
Aretha Franklin’s Unique Interpretation
Aretha Franklin’s version of “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman” is known for its soulful and emotional depth. Released in 1967, it’s from her album “Lady Soul.” It’s a powerful anthem of female empowerment songs with its moving delivery and deep feeling.
Aretha’s Vocals and Orchestral Arrangement
Franklin’s voice on “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman” is paired with a strong orchestral backing. Her voice, filled with soulful lyrics analysis, makes the song timeless. It speaks of real feelings and deep emotions.
This song made her a music legend and a key part of her career. Her performance at the Kennedy Center Honors in 2015 shows the song’s lasting impact and her amazing voice.
The Role of Carolyn and Erma Franklin
Aretha’s sisters, Carolyn and Erma Franklin, added to the song’s emotional depth with their background vocals. Their harmonies brought a sense of family support, fitting the song’s theme of being true to oneself. Their work made the song a standout female empowerment song in music history.
Chart Performance and Releases
“(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” recorded by Aretha Franklin in 1967, became a musical legend. It hit number 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 2 on the US Hot R&B/Hip-Hop Songs chart. This success showed how much the song touched its listeners.
Initial Release and Chart Success
The song’s success was beyond what was expected. Aretha Franklin’s 1967 version became a classic. In 1999, it was added to the Grammy Hall of Fame. In 2021, Rolling Stone ranked it at number 90 in their list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
In the UK, Franklin’s version was certified Gold for selling 400,000 units. It reached number 79 in the UK after her death in 2018.
Live Performances and Subsequent Releases
Aretha Franklin’s live shows were unforgettable. Her 2015 Kennedy Center Honors performance made then-President Barack Obama cry. These moments added to the song’s history and appeal.
Many artists have covered the song. Mary J. Blige’s version for “New York Undercover” reached number 23 in the UK. Celine Dion’s tribute for a Carole King album peaked at number 47 in Canada. Franklin’s live performances made the song even more special. It continues to influence artists and fans around the world.
Cover Versions and Their Impact
“You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman” has touched many artists, leading to a wide range of covers. Each cover adds a new layer to the song’s emotional depth. This has made the song a lasting part of music history.
Let’s look at some of the most famous covers and how they’ve affected the music world and fans everywhere.
Notable Covers by Carole King, Celine Dion, and Mary J. Blige
Carole King, who helped write the song, recorded her own version. Her version was more personal and reflective than Aretha Franklin’s. King’s version showed her skill as a songwriter and performer.
Celine Dion’s version brought a modern pop twist to the classic. It showed off Dion’s powerful vocals and emotional connection. Mary J. Blige’s cover added soul and R&B elements, offering a fresh take. Both artists proved the song’s versatility across different styles and eras.
Interpretations by Other Artists
Many artists have covered “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman,” each bringing their own style. Kelly Clarkson’s live performances and Bonnie Tyler’s rock version are just a few examples. These covers celebrate the song’s original message and reach new listeners.
These versions show the song’s wide appeal and the strong bond women share with its themes. Artists’ unique takes on the song show music’s power to unite people across generations and cultures. “You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman” has become a timeless anthem for women’s empowerment and self-expression.
