Aretha Franklin Receives Tribute With New York Subway Stencil Graffiti

Some stencil artists just made their way to Franklin Street subway station in New York to pay tribute to the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, who recently passed away at age 76. The graffiti including adding the first name ‘Aretha’ to the Franklin Street sign, in addition to stenciling and spray painting lyrics to some of her best songs around the station.

This project received praise all over the Internet. Even those who don’t agree with defacing any sort of property were absolutely touched by this public display of appreciation for the late singer. In addition to this absolutely amazing tribute to Franklin, an outpouring of love shook up the world on August 16th when news broke that she had died.

Celebrities, politicians, and artists (just like these stencil artists) paid tribute to Franklin. Singers dedicated some songs to her at their concerts while some politicians like former President Barack Obama and current President Donald Trump also expressed their sadness and condolences to her family at this time.

Franklin was best known for her hit songs, “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” and “Respect”. She received many honors throughout her life, including induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987. She was also listed in the 100 Greatest Artists of All Time and the 100 Greatest Singers of All Time in Rolling Stone magazine.

The late singer had been dealing with a number of health issues leading up to her death. A lot of it stemmed from issues with her weight and, ultimately, pancreatic cancer. She was in hospice for the last few weeks of her life, surrounded by family.

Since the news broke of Franklin’s death, her hit song “Respect” sits in the Top 5 of the R&B/Soul Charts on iTunes and the #1 playlist is currently “Aretha Franklin Essentials,” which includes all of her top hits.

With how influential and life-changing Franklin was and continues to be, this might just end up being permanent.

People from all walks of life (with different opinions on stencil art) are coming together to pay tribute to the Queen of Soul. No matter which way it’s expressed.

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