Talk Dat Talk | Your Black Celebrity Gossip, Culture News & Trending Tea

Tag: Aretha Franklin

  • R&B’s Album Cover ‘Lean’ Makes a Comeback

    What does it mean to ‘lean’? In the world of R&B, it’s a comfortably relaxed, inviting pose that has graced album covers for decades. This year, artists like Eric Bellinger, Durand Bernarr, and Ari Lennox are all channeling this classic tradition, putting their own spin on the iconic reclining stance.

    A Nod to the Greats

    Eric Bellinger, noticing the trend, embraced it for his upcoming self-titled album. He told Rolling Stone that he wanted to capture a classic, vulnerable feel, drawing inspiration from legends like Michael Jackson, Lionel Richie, Luther Vandross, and Teddy Pendergrass. “I tapped into a much more personal and vulnerable approach this time around,” Bellinger explained, aiming to bring back the legendary ‘LEAN’.

    This pose has been a staple since at least Aretha Franklin’s 1979 LP, ‘La Diva.’ Pendergrass followed with a particularly sexy rendition on his 1981 album, ‘It’s Time for Love.’ Ari Lennox channels Franklin’s confident repose on her latest album, ‘Vacancy,’ while Michael Jackson’s 1982 masterpiece, ‘Thriller,’ arguably made the look truly iconic.

    The ‘Thriller’ Effect and Beyond

    The story behind the ‘Thriller’ cover shoot reveals that the pose was almost an afterthought, accommodating a tiger Michael Jackson wanted included. Photographer Dick Zimmerman noted that the shoot was a playful exploration that eventually led to the chosen shot. In the years that followed, artists like Lionel Richie and Luther Vandross adopted their own versions of the lean, though the trend eventually faded by the late Eighties.

    Interestingly, the resurgence of the ‘lean’ seems to be a collective, almost subconscious, movement among R&B artists this year. When Bellinger realized he was part of this trend, his initial thought was to reshoot his cover. However, he ultimately decided to stick with his original vision, feeling a “likeminded connectivity and resurgence amongst the gentlemen in R&B.”

    A ‘Rite of Passage’ for a New Era

    Durand Bernarr, whose album ‘Benarr.’ features him leaning on a couch, found the coincidence amusing. He shared that he encouraged Bellinger to stick with his vision, calling the lean “almost a rite of passage to lean on your album cover at LEAST once!” Bernarr’s photographer, Juan Veloz, aimed to emulate the classics, stating, “The moment we saw that lean pose, we knew the album was going to be iconic!”

    While some debate the origins and potential influences, like R&B artist Alfonzo Jones’s 1982 debut, the consensus is that 2026 is indeed the year of the shoulder lean. It signifies a return to classic aesthetics and a willingness for artists to present themselves in a more vulnerable, inviting light, connecting with the soulful traditions of the past.

    What do you think of the ‘lean’ pose making a comeback on R&B album covers? Which artist’s cover is your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Jill Scott Recalls Wild Aretha Franklin Encounter

    Meeting a music icon for the first time is often a dream scenario, filled with anticipation of warm greetings and words of wisdom. But for Jill Scott, her initial encounter with the incomparable Aretha Franklin was anything but ordinary. In fact, fans are calling the experience ‘hazing’!

    The Hot Dog Request

    During a recent interview on NPR’s Fresh Air with Tony Mosley, Jill Scott recalled the moment she met the Queen of Soul. Instead of a hug or advice, Franklin had a very specific, and somewhat surprising, request: fetch her two hot dogs with cooked onions and mustard.

    “Aretha Franklin sent me to get her two hot dogs with cooked onions and mustard,” Scott shared with a laugh. Despite having the number one album in the country at the time with ‘The Light of the Sun,’ Scott happily obliged, heading to the corner to fulfill the request. She even waited, though she noted Franklin didn’t even seem to eat the hot dogs.

    Lessons Learned from the Queen

    Looking back, Scott sees the experience as a valuable lesson. She realized that Franklin might have been testing her, seeing how she would handle an unexpected opportunity. “You gotta earn your stripes,” Scott reflected, understanding that Franklin’s tough approach was perhaps a way to teach her not to waste time or opportunities.

    Scott now identifies with being that ‘tough auntie’ figure to a degree, believing Franklin’s actions were ultimately beneficial for her growth. It was a lesson in resilience and seizing the moment, even in the most unconventional ways.

    Don’t waste it, don’t waste my time, don’t waste your time. It’s too valuable. — Jill Scott reflecting on Aretha Franklin’s potential mindset

    Social Media Reacts

    The story quickly sparked reactions online. Some users felt Franklin’s request was a “mean girl” move or outright “hazing,” while others commended Jill Scott for her respect and willingness to go the extra mile. Regardless of the interpretation, the encounter has become a legendary anecdote in the music world.

    Jill Scott continues to solidify her own legendary status, recently releasing her first studio album in over a decade, ‘To Whom This May Concern,’ which debuted in the top 10 on multiple Billboard charts. She’s also preparing for an international tour.

    What do you think of Jill Scott’s Aretha Franklin story? Was it ‘hazing’ or a valuable lesson? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!

  • Faux Fur Friday: 50 Celebs Rocking Fuzzy Fashion

    The temperature is dropping, and you know what that means – it’s time to embrace the cozy, chic vibes of faux fur! To celebrate the first Friday of December, we’re dedicating this edition of Style & Fashion to ‘Faux Fur Friday,’ showcasing 50 of the most fly and fuzzy fashion moments from our favorite celebrities.

    Why We Love Faux Fur

    Beyond its undeniable style factor, faux fur is a winter wardrobe essential for keeping warm. But its versatility doesn’t stop at coats! This plush material adds a touch of luxury and flair to everything from hats and purses to shoes. It’s the perfect way to elevate any outfit and make a statement.

    From elegant evening wear to casual street style, celebrities have consistently proven that faux fur is a timeless trend. Whether it’s a dramatic full-length coat or a subtle trim, these fuzzy accents add an extra layer of glamour and sophistication.

    Iconic Looks We Can’t Forget

    This list features a dazzling array of stars who have mastered the art of rocking faux fur. We’re talking about legends like Diana Ross, whose timeless elegance shines through in every ensemble, and fashion icons like Naomi Campbell, who brings her signature runway power to every look. And let’s not forget Tyra Banks, who has always served fierce fashion moments throughout her career.

    • **Diana Ross:** Always a style icon, her fur pieces exude classic glamour.
    • **Naomi Campbell:** The supermodel knows how to make a statement, often with dramatic fur coats.
    • **Tyra Banks:** From the runway to the red carpet, Tyra consistently delivers show-stopping looks.
    • **Megan Thee Stallion:** Bringing a modern, bold edge to fuzzy fashion.
    • **Rihanna:** Never afraid to experiment, she incorporates fur into her trendsetting style.
    • **Zendaya:** Effortlessly chic, she elevates any outfit with sophisticated fur accents.

    A Star-Studded Showcase

    The list goes on, featuring a diverse range of artists, actors, and style influencers. From the smooth vibes of Teddy Pendergrass and Usher to the bold statements of Lil Kim and Cardi B., there’s a faux fur look for every personality. We also see fashion-forward choices from Erykah Badu, Doja Cat, FKA Twigs, and many more, proving that faux fur is a staple across genres and generations.

    Even fashion architects like Law Roach and André Leon Talley, along with style mavens like Lori Harvey and Savannah James, are on this list, showcasing their impeccable taste. It’s a true celebration of how faux fur continues to be a powerful element in high fashion and celebrity style.

    Get Inspired This Season

    As you can see, faux fur is more than just a trend; it’s a statement piece that adds warmth, texture, and undeniable style. Whether you’re drawn to classic elegance or modern edge, there’s a fuzzy fashion moment waiting for you this winter. So, go ahead, embrace the softness, and step out in style!

    Which celebrity’s faux fur look is your favorite? Are you ready to rock some fuzzy fashion this season? Let us know in the comments below!

  • Aretha Franklin’s $80M Legacy and Estate

    The passing of Aretha Franklin, the undisputed “Queen of Soul,” left an indelible mark on music and culture. Her powerful voice became an anthem for civil rights, feminism, and love, defining generations. More than just a singer, Franklin was a cultural force, earning 18 Grammy Awards, selling over 75 million records, and becoming the first woman inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

    From Detroit Roots to Global Stardom

    Raised in Detroit by her father, renowned Baptist minister and civil rights leader C.L. Franklin, Aretha was immersed in music and activism from a young age. She began singing gospel in her father’s church, touring with him as a teen. Despite a challenging upbringing, including the loss of her mother at age 10 and becoming a mother herself at 12, her musical genius was undeniable.

    Franklin’s career took flight in the early 1960s with Columbia Records, but her true breakthrough came upon joining Atlantic Records in 1967. Her first single, “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You),” was a massive hit, quickly followed by the iconic anthem “Respect.” Her subsequent releases, including “Chain of Fools,” “Think,” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” solidified her status as an unstoppable force in the music industry, blending gospel, soul, pop, and blues.

    Business Acumen and Legacy Protection

    While not heavily involved in numerous business ventures, Franklin maintained tight control over her career. She famously insisted on upfront cash payments before performances and protected her fortune with a discerning circle of advisors. Later in life, she launched her own publishing company and retained ownership of much of her music catalog, carefully selecting licensing opportunities to preserve her brand and financial independence.

    Her music, which spanned six decades, tackled themes of love, heartbreak, empowerment, and spirituality with unparalleled authenticity and vocal prowess. Franklin’s performances at presidential inaugurations and major global events consistently moved audiences, cementing her place in history.

    Estate and Inheritance Without a Will

    At the time of her death in 2018, Aretha Franklin’s net worth was estimated at $80 million. However, she passed away without a formal will, leading to a complex legal battle over her estate. Initially, her four sons were expected to share the estate equally. However, the discovery of two handwritten wills in her home led to years of litigation.

    In 2023, a jury ruled one of the handwritten documents from 2014 to be valid. Consequently, the majority of her estate is now slated to go to her youngest son, Kecalf Cunningham, with specific provisions for her other sons. As of 2025, the estate’s value is estimated between $18 and $25 million, fluctuating with royalties, real estate, and intellectual property valuations. Her music continues to generate income through streaming, licensing, film projects like “Respect,” and brand endorsements.

    A Deep Bond with Whitney Houston

    Contrary to popular belief, Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston were not biologically related. However, they shared a profound personal bond, with Franklin referring to Houston as her “honorary niece.” This connection stemmed from Franklin’s close friendship with Houston’s mother, Cissy Houston, a legendary gospel singer who also sang backup for Franklin in the 1960s. Houston affectionately called Franklin “Auntie Ree,” sharing a deep spiritual kinship rooted in their shared musical legacy.

    Caring for Her Son Clarence

    Franklin’s first son, Clarence, was born when she was just 12 years old. To protect his dignity, she kept details about him private. Clarence reportedly lived with undisclosed developmental disabilities and required full-time care, residing in assisted housing for much of his adult life. He was under the legal guardianship of Franklin’s estate at the time of her death, and petitions were filed to ensure his continued medical care and financial support, reflecting their deep bond.

    What is your favorite Aretha Franklin song or memory? Share your tributes to the Queen of Soul in the comments below!