In a 2002 interview, legendary singer Chaka Khan revealed how deeply she was influenced by Aretha Franklin early in her career. Back in 1969, while touring with the Shades of Black and the Afro Arts Theater at just 15 years old, Khan had to perform in Philadelphia. Unsure of how to win over the crowd, she decided to channel Aretha Franklin’s soulful vocal style. She gave a little holler, mimicking Aretha’s signature gospel-rooted power—and the audience loved it. That performance marked a turning point. From that day forward, Khan adopted the emotive, commanding style that would define her as one of the greatest voices of the 20th century. She’s credited that moment—and Aretha’s influence—as pivotal to her vocal identity.
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