In honor and memory of the late Aretha Franklin (and Duane Allman)

I heard this version of “The Weight” by Aretha Franklin in the grocery store the other day and it stopped me in my tracks. Joined by Duane Allman for the collaboration in 1969, it’s a reminder that the Queen of Soul could easily find her away around Rock and Roll.

The original version by The Band in 1968 remains an airplay staple, but stalled at #63 on the singles chart, while Aretha’s version grooved its way to #19. Duane’s slippery slide lead line was very much in keeping with the version he’d recorded with Aretha’s musical director King Curtis the year before, but still sounds mighty fresh here. Massive bottom-end from David Hood on bass rounds this one out. It’s a shame that her version of “The Weight” hasn’t endured as one of Aretha’s most-frequently played tracks, and is too rarely included on lists of her mightiest covers. It sure should be! 

With 112 singles in the charts, selling over 7.5 million records and having 18 Grammys, Aretha Franklin will remain as one of the revolutionary artist of all times.

Video posted by Vincent George on Youtube