I Own That Album - Aretha Franklin - Oh Me Oh My: Aretha Live in Philly, 1972

I’m proud to own Oh Me Oh My: Aretha Live in Philly, 1972, an album where the Queen of Soul delivers a masterclass in live performance, showcasing her powerful vocals and force as an artist. The album offers a glimpse of Aretha Franklin at the peak of her career, channeling the raw energy and emotion that made her a legend. The setlist includes a mix of her biggest hits, gospel influences, and soul standards, all performed with the grace, power, and intensity that Franklin brought to every stage she graced.

From the opening track, which includes a snippet of “Also Sprach Zarathustra” that then leads into the incredible “Rock Steady”, you know you’re in for a treat - this is more than just a concert—it's a spiritual experience. The power and conviction in her voice resonate with the audience, and Franklin's ability to move seamlessly between secular and sacred music is a testament to her versatility. She turns every song into a personal testimony, filled with raw emotion and deep connection to her faith.

One of the standout performances on the album is her medley of “Bridge Over Troubled Water” and “We’ve Only Just Begun”. Franklin’s voice shines and each word and lyric you hear is both vulnerable and strong. The live setting adds a unique texture, allowing Franklin to explore new vocal nuances that studio recordings can't always capture. You can hear the audience responding to her performance, feeding off the energy in the room and enhancing the experience.

Franklin also brings her signature hits, like “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)” and “Respect,” which feel electrifying in this live context. The energy and passion in her voice are matched by the stellar musicianship of her band, who deliver tight, grooving arrangements that keep the audience on their feet. Every note Franklin sings is filled with conviction, and hearing her belt out these classics in a live setting gives them an entirely new layer of depth and power.

Oh Me Oh My: Aretha Live in Philly, 1972 is more than just a live album; it’s a snapshot of an iconic artist at the height of her powers. Franklin’s unmatched ability to channel emotion, combined with her incredible vocal control and command of the stage, make this album a must-listen for any fan of soul music. It captures the essence of what made Aretha Franklin a force of nature—a woman who could not only sing but elevate every song she touched into something deeply personal and universally powerful. And you can borrow my copy if you’d like.