Did You Know?
“Respect” is a classic and empowering song recorded by the legendary American singer Aretha Franklin. Released in 1967, the song is one of Aretha Franklin’s signature tracks and has become an anthem for both the women’s rights and civil rights movements. Here’s some information about the song:
- Origin and Background: “Respect” was written by Otis Redding, but Aretha Franklin’s rendition, with its rearranged musical elements and her powerful vocals, made it iconic. Aretha Franklin’s version reimagined the song and transformed it into a feminist and civil rights anthem.
- Lyrics: The lyrics of “Respect” convey a strong message of empowerment and the demand for respect. Aretha Franklin’s rendition added the famous “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” spelling out of the word “respect” in the chorus, which became a defining and memorable feature of the song.
- Musical Style: The song is rooted in the soul and rhythm and blues genres. Aretha Franklin’s soulful and gospel-influenced vocal delivery, along with the groovy instrumentation, creates a powerful and uplifting sound.
- Chart Success: “Respect” was a major commercial success, topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It was a crossover hit, achieving recognition on both the pop and R&B charts.
- Empowerment and Civil Rights: The song’s message of respect and empowerment resonated with both the women’s rights and civil rights movements of the 1960s. It became an anthem for those advocating for equal rights and social justice.
- Legacy: “Respect” is widely regarded as one of the greatest songs of all time. Aretha Franklin’s rendition is often praised for its impact on popular music and its role in advancing the causes of equality and respect.
- Recognition: Aretha Franklin’s version of “Respect” won two Grammy Awards and is considered one of her signature songs. It is often associated with her legacy as the “Queen of Soul.”
“Respect” by Aretha Franklin is not just a song; it’s an enduring anthem that has transcended generations. Its message of self-worth and the demand for respect continues to inspire and empower people, and it stands as a symbol of Aretha Franklin’s immense talent and her contribution to the cultural and social movements of her time.
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Lyrics
“Respect”
Baby, I got it
What you need
Do you know I got it?All I’m askin’
Is for a little respect
When you come home
(just a little bit)
Hey, baby
(just a little bit)
When you get home
(just a little bit)
Mister
(just a little bit)I ain’t gonna do you wrong
While you’re gone
Ain’t gonna do you wrong
‘Cause I don’t wannaAll I’m askin’
Is for a little respect
When you come home
(just a little bit)
Baby
(just a little bit)
When you get home
(just a little bit)
Yeah
(just a little bit)
I’m about to give you all of my money
And all I’m askin’ in return, honey
Is to give me my propers
When you get home
(just a, just a, just a, just a)
Yeah, baby
(just a, just a, just a, just a)
When you get home
(just a little bit)
Yeah
(just a little bit)
Ooh, your kisses
Sweeter than honey
And guess what?
So is my money
All I want you to do for me
Is give it to me when you get home
(re, re, re ,re)
Yeah, baby
(re, re, re ,re)
Whip it to me
(respect, just a little bit)
When you get home, now
(just a little bit)
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Find out what it means to me
R-E-S-P-E-C-T
Take care, TCB
Oh (sock it to me, sock it to me
Sock it to me, sock it to me)
A little respect
(sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me, sock it to me)
Whoa, babe
(just a little bit)
A little respect
(just a little bit)
I get tired
(just a little bit)
Keep on tryin’
(just a little bit)
You’re runnin’ out of foolin’
(just a little bit)
And I ain’t lyin’
(just a little bit)
(re, re, re, re) ‘spect
When you come home
(re, re, re, re)
Or you might walk in
(respect, just a little bit)
And find out I’m gone
(just a little bit)
I got to have
(just a little bit)