Classic Pop Icons

Aretha Franklin’s soul classic “Think” is Song of the Week on Classic Pop Icons. “Think” was released on single in May 1968, backed with a cover of the Sam Cooke hit “You Send Me.” Both songs featured on the album “Aretha Now,” which was released the following month.

Aretha had turned the Otis Redding track “R.E.S.P.E.C.T” into a feminist anthem the previous year and “Think” is a natural follow-up. Aretha delivers a confident and commanding vocal, which perfectly matches the defiant lyric. Although “Think” is about a power struggle within a romantic relationship, the “freedom” bridge also broadens the message and is particularly poignant given that it was recorded just six days after Aretha had sung at Martin Luther King Jr’s funeral.

Aretha Franklin – “Think”

“Think” reached a new audience in 1980 when Aretha sang an extended version in the hit movie “The Blues Brothers.” She also re-recorded “Think” for her 1989 album “Through the Storm.”

Authorship

“Think” was written by Aretha Franklin and Ted White. White was Aretha’s husband and personal manager at this time.

Recording date/location

“Think” was recorded on April 15, 1968 at Atlantic Studios, New York City.

Musicians

The following musicians featured on “Think”:

• Aretha Franklin – lead vocals, piano
• Spooner Oldham – organ
• Tommy Cogbill – guitar
• Jimmy Johnson – guitar
• Jerry Jemmott – bass
• Roger Hawkins – drums
• The Memphis Horns – horns
• The Sweet Inspirations – backing vocals.

The Muscle Shoals rhythm section provide typically expert backing and there is very fine interplay between Aretha and the Sweet Inspirations.

Chart performance

“Think”, backed with “You Send Me,” reached number seven on Billboard’s Hot 100 on June 9, 1968 and also topped Billboard’s Black Singles Chart.

The album “Aretha Now” peaked at number three in the US and number six in the UK.

Covers

Joan Osborne – “Think”

Joan Osborne recorded “Think” for her 2002 covers album “How Sweet It Is.” It’s more rock than soul and lacks the high powered vocal of the original, but it’s a pleasing enough cover.

There will be a new Song of the Week on June 6.

Aretha Franklin’s “Think” is on the album “Aretha Now.”

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