As I rested the needle on side one, track one of Aretha Franklin’s I Never Loved A Man The Way I Love You, I was immediately transported as “Respect” poured out of my speakers. I couldn’t help but dance around my living room, soaking in every second of sound with Ms. Franklin. The music wrapped around me like a familiar, cozy blanket. It was inviting and warm, powerful yet intimate. And when it was done, I was sad to see it end. This was a record I could flip back over and enjoy every moment all over again. It’s so rare to have an experience like this with a selection of songs. There are records throughout music history that are referred to as masterpieces—albums that, from top to bottom, deliver perfection with every note. I Never Loved A Man The Way I Love You is, in my opinion, one of those masterpieces.
During our discussion of this record at our latest fridate, Chad noted that what makes Aretha Franklin so special is the infusion of Gospel into her music. Gospel is at her roots, and though this album encapsulates the classic sound of 1960s soul, its Gospel elements are what truly propel it to heights above the rest. Whether it’s presented through the tone and movement in her voice or the arrangement of the instruments accompanying her, Gospel is the fuel behind I Never Loved a Man…, and it’s the secret weapon to its perfection. There are many facets to this record that allow it to stand the test of time, but I think the Gospel motif is possibly the most valuable and core feature to note. And without her love for Gospel, would Aretha Franklin have been overlooked in the annals of time? The world will never know (and thank God for it)!
There’s not a single moment on this album that I would change. After revisiting it through my turntable in this listening experience, I honestly should address the need for it to be present on my favorite albums of all time list. There’s nothing that compares to it. It embodies the definition of flawless.
Album: I Never Loved A Man The Way I Love You
Artist: Aretha Franklin
Release Year: 1967
Label: Atlantic Records
Jessi’s star rating: ★★★★★
Jessi’s favorite tracks: “I Never Loved A Man (The Way I Love You),” “Drown In My Own Tears,” “Do Right Woman, Do Right Man”