Aretha Franklin, who passed away this past August at the age of 76, is not only remembered for her musical legacy, but her prominent place in Detroit’s history as a civil rights activist. Born in Memphis, Franklin began her career as a child singing gospel at Detroit’s New Bethel Baptist, where her father was the minister. Throughout her life, Franklin was a musical trailblazer and a civil rights and women’s rights activist, who used her status to advance causes dear to her. Honor her life and legacy at the Detroit Historical Museum as the Kid Rock Music Lab presents Aretha, an exhibit of records, historical information, memorabilia— including a rare lacquer “test” pressing of “Respect”— through Summer 2019.
5401 Woodward Ave.
313-833-1805 | Detroithistorical.org | Free
