“(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” by Aretha Franklin
“(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural” is one of the most notable songs by the legendary American singer Aretha Franklin (also known as the Queen of Soul).
The lyrics of this song see the singer (Franklin) telling her man how much he inspires her, puts joy in her heart and makes her “feel like a natural woman”.
How “Natural Woman” was born
This tune was inspired by the celebrated music producer Jerry Wexler and written by the renowned songwriting duo Goffin-King made up of Gerry Gofin and Carole King. According to Wexler’s autobiography Rhythm and the Blues published in 1993, he had been driving in New York when he came across King and suggested to her that she write a song titled “Natural Woman” for an artist of his. This artist was Aretha Franklin. King jumped at the idea because she found the title to be exceptionally distinct. At the end of the day, when King and Goffin were done writing the song, they gave Wexler writing credit on the track to say “thank you” to him for inspiring the song.
Facts about “Natural Woman”
- Despite this tune being one of Aretha Franklin’s biggest hits, she didn’t write it. “Natural Woman” was penned by American lyricist Gerry Goffin and fellow American composer Carole King. After the song was composed, music producer Jerry Wexler was added as the third songwriter for inspiring the song.
- In addition to receiving songwriting credit, Wexler produced the track.
- “Natural Woman” was officially released by Aretha Franklin in September 1967. It was the first single from Franklin’s fourteenth studio album Lady Soul, which is widely regarded as one of the greatest albums of all time.
- The songs background vocals were provided by the noted American R&B group The Sweet Inspirations. The group was founded by singer Whitney Houston’s mother Cissy Houston. Carolyn and Erma Franklin also contributed background vocals to the track. Carolyn and Erma were both sisters of Aretha’s.