After reemerging from an undisclosed health issue this month, the Queen of Soul is preparing to record a new album with the help of Clive Davis, Don Was, and Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds.
The not-yet-titled album’s concept was made public October 16, at a media gathering in Southfield, MI. Franklin announced that her new album, to be produced by Detroit native Don Was and 11-time Grammy Award-winner Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, would be a tribute to “divas” throughout the years. The album will include covers of vocal classics alongside new tracks.
Franklin, now 71-years-old, has mentioned Dinah Washington’s “Teach Me Tonight,” Whitney Houston’s “How Will I Know” and “Greatest Love of All,” and “At Last” by Etta James for potential cover concepts. Franklin has begun production meetings with Was in Detroit and looks to begin recording in November.
Franklin’s most recent album, 2011’s A Woman Falling Out of Love, was released on her independently owned label, Aretha’s Records; however, her forthcoming LP is to be released via RCA Records in conjunction with Clive Davis’ strong connection to the label.
Franklin says her upcoming shows may include a Christmas performance at Motor City Casino’s Sound Board, in addition to a 2014 summer concert at DTE Energy Music Theatre.