Interesting article on the way music royalties are (and are not) awarded. Ms. Franklin evidently performed a song ("Respect") by Otis Redding and put a personal stamp on it by altering the music and (to some extent) the text. Yet she never received royalties for what became an enduring success.
I have to confess that I knew almost nothing about Aretha Franklin until this week. About the only thing I remember is her singing one of the nominated songs at the Oscar ceremony around 1968 or so. She wore a very strange hat -- with antlers! Now, half a century later, I learn that she has been a deeply influential and much loved performer. My bad! My respect to the lady and her family and all who have loved her artistry.
