About the Song
Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul. Her voice, a powerhouse that could belt out a gospel hymn or whisper a love song with equal brilliance. Today, we’re setting the dial back to 1968, a time of social change and rising female empowerment, and revisiting a song that became an anthem for many – (You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.
This wasn’t always destined to be an Aretha Franklin classic though. The story goes that producer Jerry Wexler, impressed by Franklin’s talent, challenged songwriters Carole King and Gerry Goffin to create something special for her upcoming album, Lady Soul. They went back and forth on ideas, Wexler even throwing in the suggestion of a “natural woman” theme. King, however, felt uncomfortable with the term, fearing it might be interpreted in a stereotypical way.
But that night, inspiration struck. King later recounted that the lyrics poured out quickly, capturing a raw and honest portrayal of a woman finding confidence and self-worth through love. The next day, they presented the song to Wexler, who was instantly captivated. Though King was initially hesitant about the title, Wexler loved it and insisted it stay. Thankfully, King relented, and music history was made.
(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman starts with a simple piano melody, setting the stage for Franklin’s iconic voice to enter. The lyrics paint a picture of a woman who once felt lost and unsure, but with the love of a partner, discovers a newfound sense of purpose and joy. Lines like “Looking out on the morning rain, I used to feel so uninspired” and “Before the day I met you, life was so unkind” resonate deeply, especially for those who can recall a time when they felt out of sorts.
Then comes the powerful chorus, the heart and soul of the song. Franklin lets loose, belting out the transformative power of love: “You make me feel, You make me feel, You make me feel like a natural woman.” It’s a declaration, a celebration of self-discovery, and a testament to the profound impact a loving relationship can have.
(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman transcended generations. It became an anthem for women of all ages, a reminder that true beauty and strength come from within. Aretha Franklin’s soulful delivery and the song’s empowering message solidified its place as a timeless classic, a beacon of hope, and a constant reminder of the transformative power of love. So, sit back, relax, and let Aretha wash over you with this iconic piece of musical history.