Franklin's soaring vocals have had a towering influence on American soul and pop music that is still heard today. Looking to build the essential Aretha playlist? These 20 songs are a must.

But I’m delighted.’ The first songs I sang in church were “Jesus Be a Fence Around Me” and “I Am Sealed.” I was around 8 or 9. My dad asked me to sing that day. I didn’t want to sing ...