Born on March 25, 1942 in Memphis, Tennessee, Aretha Louise Franklin is known as the "The Queen of Soul." Her contributions to the genres of Gospel, R&B, Soul and Pop, both as a vocalist and pianist, remain unparalleled. Her hits include "Respect," "Break It To Me Gently," "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," "I Say A Little Prayer" and "I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You)." She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987 and has received several Grammy Awards; the first of which was in 1967. Aretha sang "My Country 'Tis of Thee" after Dr. Rick Warren gave the invocation.
Did You Know?
Aretha Franklin is said to have a fear of flying. Learn more about "The Queen of Soul" through this profile.
John Williams
John Williams is undeniably one of the most prolific and multi-awarded composers of our time. His works include over 75 film scores including the music for the "Star Wars Trilogy," "E.T.," "Superman," "Jurassic Park" and scores for three Harry Potter Films; "Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone," "Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets" and "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban". Williams has received many accolades including honorary degrees from 14 different universities.
Did You Know?
John Williams also wrote several compositions for the Olympics including “Olympic Fanfare and Theme," “We’re Lookin’ Good" and “Olympic Spirit.” Read more about this respected composer through this profile.
Yo-Yo Ma
Born in Paris, France on October 7, 1955 to Chinese parents, Yo-Yo Ma started playing the cello at the tender age of 4 under the guidance of his father. Now, Ma is one of the most versatile cellists of our time. In 1991, he received an honorary doctorate in music from Harvard and in 2004, his album, Obrigado Brazil, received a Grammy Award for Best Classical Crossover Album.
Did You Know?
Yo-Yo Ma performed at Carnegie Hall when he was only 9 years old. Learn more about this notable cellist through this profile.
Next - Anthony McGill, Gabriela Montero and Itzhak Perlman
