10 Famous Pop Songs You Didn't Realise Were Covers
8. Respect - Aretha Franklin
The Queen of Soul’s 1967 hit was a defining moment for 1960s feminist movement and is widely regarded of one of the best R&B songs of all time. However, the original version of Respect was written and performed by Otis Redding Jr. and has slightly altered lyrics with a very different message.
Originally written from a male perspective, Redding’s version is a plea from a desperate man whose woman can do anything so long as they are together, and she at least respects him when he brings money home. Franklin’s version, on the other hand, is a celebration of female empowerment from a woman who knows she has everything her man wants.
This version was critically acclaimed, winning two awards at the 1968 Grammys for both "Best Rhythm & Blues Solo Vocal Performance, Female" and "Best Rhythm & Blues Recording".