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Aretha Franklin Popular Song Rankings [2026]

In 1987, Aretha Franklin became the first female artist inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

A soul music singer who, alongside Otis Redding, helped drive the rise of Southern soul.

This time, we’re focusing on her.

We’ve listed her most-played songs in a ranked format, so be sure to check them out.

Aretha Franklin Popular Songs Ranking [2026] (21–30)

Bridge Over Troubled WaterAretha Franklin21rank/position

Aretha Franklin – Bridge Over Troubled Water
Bridge Over Troubled WaterAretha Franklin

Originally released by Simon & Garfunkel in 1970, the track won a Grammy Award.

This gospel-inspired version by Aretha Franklin was released in 1971 and reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

Call MeAretha Franklin22rank/position

Aretha Franklin – Call Me (Slayd5000)
Call MeAretha Franklin

A track written by Aretha Franklin and released as a single in 1970.

It was inspired by an intimate conversation she observed between a young couple on Park Avenue in New York.

It reached No.

1 on the U.S.

charts.

Chain Of FoolsAretha Franklin23rank/position

Aretha Franklin – Chain Of Fools (Lyrics)
Chain Of FoolsAretha Franklin

A track sung from the perspective of a woman who understands that, to her boyfriend, she’s just one of many—one link in a chain.

Released as a single in 1967, it won a Grammy Award and was later inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Dark End Of The StreetAretha Franklin24rank/position

Aretha Franklin – Dark End of The Street
Dark End Of The StreetAretha Franklin

The original was a 1967 hit by James Carr.

“Dark End of the Street” refers to the place where two people having a secret affair meet in hiding.

Aretha, the Queen of Soul, delivers a moving, emotionally rich vocal.

Many artists, including Elvis Costello and Cat Power, have covered the song.

Do Right Woman, Do Right ManAretha Franklin25rank/position

aretha franklin do right woman , do right man
Do Right Woman, Do Right ManAretha Franklin

A track released as a single in 1967 by Aretha Franklin.

It features gospel-inspired vocals at the beginning.

The track was selected by Rolling Stone for its list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”

Everyday PeopleAretha Franklin26rank/position

Aretha Franklin – Everyday People (Official Music Video)
Everyday PeopleAretha Franklin

Originally released in 1968 as a hit track by Sly and the Family Stone.

This cover version by Aretha Franklin was released as a single in 1991 and reached No.

13 on the U.S.

R&B chart.

How Long I’ve Been WaitingAretha Franklin27rank/position

A track released in 2011 by Aretha Franklin, who is considered one of the legends of soul.

It is included on the album Aretha: A Woman Falling Out of Love.

This track is one of Aretha’s favorites on the album and reached No.

91 on the U.S.

charts.

I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)Aretha Franklin28rank/position

Aretha Franklin – I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You) (Official Audio)
I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin, a soul singer known for her strikingly raw vocals.

She’s a soul singer with high name recognition in Japan as well.

Although she’s a soul singer, she’s also known for having strong gospel influences.

Her classic song “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You),” released in 1967, was included on an album that reached No.

2 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

It Hurts Like HellAretha Franklin29rank/position

Aretha Franklin – It Hurts Like Hell (Waiting To Exhale Soundtrack)
It Hurts Like HellAretha Franklin

This is a song where the soul-stirring voice of American legendary singer Aretha Franklin resonates deeply in the heart.

This track, which sings of the pain of heartbreak, was included on the soundtrack of the film “Waiting to Exhale.” Released in November 1995, the album “Waiting to Exhale” received high praise from New York Times critics and was selected as one of the year’s top ten albums.

Franklin’s powerful vocals profoundly express the ache of lost love, gripping listeners and refusing to let go.

As a song that comforts those troubled by love or nursing wounded hearts, it continues to be cherished by many.

Jimmy LeeAretha Franklin30rank/position

Aretha Franklin – Jimmy Lee (Official Music Video)
Jimmy LeeAretha Franklin

Jimmy Lee is a song by Aretha Franklin, a leading figure in American soul music.

Filled with the sweet and bittersweet feelings of first love, this track appears on her album Aretha, released in October 1986.

Its lyrics capture the pure emotions of student days, and Aretha’s rich, velvety vocals resonate deeply.

The album Aretha reached No.

32 on the U.S.

Billboard 200 and earned Gold certification in both the United States and Canada, garnering high acclaim worldwide.

It’s perfect for listening alone on a quiet night or sharing with someone special.