Aretha Franklin

In the decades following her debut on the scene in 1956, American singer Aretha Franklin has more than proven herself as a quintessentially iconic individual who has more than lived up to her nickname as "The Queen of Soul." With a powerful and empowered vocal approach, Franklin defined and asserted herself at a time in music when it was difficult for African American women to do so. True to her character, the booming voice never seems to relent, helping Franklin continue to impress individuals who are lucky enough to catch the diva in action. The legendary soul singer passed away after losing a struggle with pancreatic cancer in 2018.