© Art Kane, 1967, Aretha Franklin, “Halos”, Esquire Magazine

Wanting to highlight her strong Gospel roots, Art Kane tried waving the camera in a circular motion to try to make halo shapes from the light in Aretha’s eyes. This photo is also a rare, Art Kane crop, as virtually all his images are composed in full frame.

“Trying to grow up is hurting, you know. You make mistakes. You try to learn from them, and when you don’t, it hurts even more.” (Aretha Franklin)

Happy Birthday Ms. Aretha Louise Franklin!

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