Episode 149: “Respect” by Aretha Franklin
A History of Rock Music in 500 Songs
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Aretha and Mersey Goes in Another Direction
Atter James later talked about discussing the track with jazz singer Sarah Vaughn, one of Aretha's early influences. But while the album got noticed by other musicians, it didn't get much attention from the wider public. Mersey decided that the change in direction was needed and they needed to get in someone with more of a jazz background to work with Aretha. He brought in pianist and arranger Bobby Scott who had previously worked with people like Lester Young. They started recording together, but the sides they cut wouldn't be released for a few years.
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