This morning saw the passing of the groundbreaking artist and civil rights activist Aretha Franklin. Though there had been reports that Franklin’s health had taken a turn earlier this week, the news comes as a shock to he world. Few artists have had a cultural impact quite like Aretha. With an unmatchable voice that set the bar for generations of singers, when you think of the music that defined the era of soul, few names come to mind more immediately than Franklin.
As crucial voice during the civil rights era, she is remembered for her work in moving the dial on the collective the political spectrum in addition to her tremendous talent. In honour of her unmatchable influence, we have compiled a list of the multiple ways Franklin made history.