In memory of Aretha Franklin

It's a safe bet that many radio stations are playing "Respect" today, in tribute to the queen of soul, Aretha Franklin.  Franklin passed away today at age 76.  When I think of her music, I'm struck by her voice's considerable emotiveness and power.  Those qualities of hers shine on seven tracks that, to me, are among her best ones:

• Gentle On My Mind (Usually, when I've listened to this song, I've favored Glen Campbell's version.  Listening to Franklin's fast, spirited take on it reminds me that I haven't listened to her rendition enough.)
• I Say A Little Prayer (Dionne Warwick's version gets most of the radio airplay, but Franklin's powerful take is equally compelling.)
• Spanish Harlem (An appealing blend of genres mesh in an effective cover.  The lead and backing vocals are sung with the conviction of a much larger gospel choir.)
• (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You've Been Gone (Great uptempo piano and backing vocals augment one of Franklin's strongest, most soaring performances.)
• Try A Little Tenderness (Otis Redding's version usually gets the radio airplay; this is jazzier than usual for Franklin.)
• Until You Come Back To Me (To my ears, this is one of Franklin's most appealing covers.  I'm surprised I haven't heard it more often, given how accessible and memorable the tune is.  Stevie Wonder co-wrote and recorded it; unfortunately, his version is overlooked too often.  I also recommend Basia's excellent cover of it.)
• Who's Zoomin' Who? (Still a good driving tune; the synthesized, overtly '80s backing vocals and instrumental touches serve the song well.)