Think by Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin was an iconic American singer, songwriter, and pianist known for her powerful and soulful voice. She had a career that spanned over five decades and earned her multiple awards and honors, including 18 Grammy Awards. One of her most popular songs is “Think.”

Meaning of the Song

“Think” was released in 1968 and was written by Aretha Franklin and her then-husband Ted White. The song is a message to a lover who is taking the singer for granted. The lyrics are straightforward and direct, urging the lover to think about their actions before it’s too late. The chorus repeats the phrase “freedom” to emphasize the importance of making the right choices and taking control of one’s life.

Musical Style

“Think” is a soulful song with a fun and upbeat tempo. The song starts with a piano riff played by Franklin herself, which sets the tone for the rest of the song. The instrumentation includes horns, drums, and backup vocals, all of which add to the overall funkiness of the song.

Lyrics

The lyrics of “Think” are a call to action, urging the listener to think about what they’re doing in their life. The first verse starts off with the lines “You better think (think) / Think about what you're trying to do to me.” This sets the tone for the rest of the song, which emphasizes the importance of making the right choices.

In the chorus, Franklin repeats the phrase “Freedom” four times, emphasizing the importance of taking control of one’s life and not being held back by others. The song ends with the phrase “Think (think, think) / Let your mind go, let yourself be free.”

Influence

“Think” has had a significant influence on music and pop culture. The song has been covered by many artists, including Ray Charles, The Blues Brothers, and Mary J. Blige, among others. The song has also been featured in various movies and TV shows, including the movie “The Blues Brothers” and the TV show “Glee.”

Conclusion

In conclusion, Aretha Franklin’s song “Think” is a soulful and upbeat song with a powerful message. The song urges the listener to take control of their life and make the right choices. The music and lyrics have had a significant influence on pop culture, and the song continues to be a popular choice for covers and inclusion in movies and TV shows.