Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, is still being honored every since her death on August 16th, 2018. The “R-E-S-P-E-C-T” singer received the Pulitzer Prize on Monday, April 15th. She is the first female recipient of this award to earn a special citation prize since the honor was first awarded in 1930, according to NBC news.
She was given this award for the many years of hard-work and dedication to not only the music industry but to the culture as a whole. Here is more on the story below:
The Pulitzer board said the award was given to Franklin for her indelible contribution to American music and culture for more than five decades.
Franklin died on Aug. 16 at her home in Detroit from pancreatic cancer at age 76.
The superstar musician was the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame when she entered the prestigious organization in 1987.
The Pulitzer board most recently awarded a special citation prize in 2010 to Hank Williams, the country music legend who died in 1953. From the arts world, other recipients include Duke Ellington, Bob Dylan, John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, George Gershwin, Ray Bradbury, William Schuman, Milton Babbitt, Scott Joplin, Roger Sessions, Richard Rodgers and Oscar Hammerstein II.
Franklin’s inclusion into the exclusive club re-confirms the impact her music — and voice — had and continues to have on the world. Franklin became a cultural icon and genius of American song, considered by many to be the greatest popular vocalist of her time. Her voice transcended age, category and her own life.”
This is such a wonderful honor for the late Aretha Franklin. It is great that people still recognize her amazing work over the many years. As personal fans of her music, we are so happy she was honored with this award just as many others are. We love you Aretha and keep Resting in Peace Queen. And now you’re officially in the KNOW!
