I write about love, romance and relationships in a web 2.0 world. ?I also write about women empowering women, whether at an event such as The Women’s Conference in Long Beach, a weekend retreat on relationships, cyber love stories of those who met online, and especially when I hear an incredible woman singing inspiring songs.
Saturday night was one of those inspirational musical moments, where I had the opportunity to see Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, perform at The House of Blues on Sunset Strip in the heart of West Hollywood. ?The last time I had seen Aretha perform live was in 1982 at the World Music Festival in Jamaica. Over 25 years later, I anxiously awaited for the night to arrive.
As I walked down the staircase from the Foundation Room to the main concert hall, Dan Akroyd passed by me with a smile and a wink. ?He knew it would be a night to remember.
Aretha was dressed in a peach full length prom dress complete with a train and a white lace overlay. She opened with Your Love Keeps Lifting Me Higher?and Higher? to a sold out crowd. As she sang the words to R-E-S-P-E-C-T, there wasn’t a woman in the crowd that wasn’t singing along with the Queen of Soul while feeling her inspiration. ?
The Queen continued with gospel and soul medleys and a few songs from her new holiday album entitled,?This Christmas Aretha?scheduled to be released on December 9th, but you can order it now if the spirit moves you. As I left the legendary House of Blues, it made me realize the holiday season has arrived.
Aretha will be a presenter at the American Music Awards on Sunday, November 23, 2008. ?I look forward to adding her newest album to my collection for the holidays.
Julie Spira is America's Top Online Dating Expert. She's an award-winning dating coach who's been helping singles find love online for 25+ years. Follow @JulieSpira on IG.
