Is it just me, or could you go for a new gospel album from Aretha Franklin? If done right, with some great production (maybe Kevin Bond) and awesome songwriting (ummm… Richard Smallwood), some guest spots and a killin’ choir to back her… it could be incredible.
Who would YOU tap for production, songwriting, guest spots?
Holla at me!
Can Ricky Dillard & New G or Youthful Praise be the choir?! I wouldn't mind Kurt Carr being the producer either!
Rudolph Stanfield would be ideal for production. And his choir, New Revelation, could do a wonderful job in adding the high quality choir sound.
Production: Dunno. Who produced the Tommies in the 80's? Almost wanna say Babyface to keep her star power in tact. Aretha's gospel project in the 80's wasn't as tight as the joint from 1973. Songwriting: Richard Smallwood (she loves his ballads), Jeffrey LaValley, Rudolph Stanfield (Detroit sound), Amirris Palmore, Nolan Williams, Jr. Guest spots: She needs both vets and some younger artists. Rance Allen, Deitrick Haddon, Shirley Ceasar and Sheri Jones-Moffet Choir Vocals: Thomas Whitfield Company and Tri-City on choir vocals.
Richard Smallwood & Walter Hawkins will be great for songwriting. I think the Miss. Mass Choir would be perfect. How about Dorothy Norwood, Albertina Walker and a few others that Aretha grew up hearing for some of her guest spots.
Production: Sanchez Harley, Percy Bady, Steven Ford.........throw Donald Lawrence in there too just because, lol
Are you forgetting that Aretha grew up in the church? Both her vocal stylings and piano style lend heavily from her gospel roots more so than the sometimes southern or bluesy influences . I feel as though she could write her own gospel songs and be in charge of the arrangements. Thus, giving us something that resonates strongly with the "Amazing Grace" Lp.
I'd like to see Auntie 'Ree sing with a big ol' traditional choir lik ethe Missippi Mass or Chicago Mass or Clay Evans' people. I think Aretha is best in her traditional mode. Her voice is not as strong and as pliable but maybe her roots can stir up something great. I am unsure about production but how about Micah Stampley (whom she loves) Joe Ligon (whom she loves), Kim Burrell and that sangin' chile from the Tyler Perry shows. I cannot recall her name right now. She is married to the comedian who plays Mr. Brown. She released a CD a little while back. I love me some her. I love her voice and her passion in her singing.
SANCHEZ HARLEY PLUS GOD = AWESOME
Sanchez Harley
Sanchez Harley..
songwriter with raw gift that can deliver to any singer a true track
She is awasome and looking forward to this