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Aretha: World Will Be Dancing in the Streets

Diva fired up to give Obama R-E-S-P-E-C-T at biggest gig of her life

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted Jan 20, 2009 8:38 AM CST

(Newser) – Aretha Franklin is psyched to sing to the biggest audience of her life in Washington today, she tells the Times of London. When she thinks of Obama she thinks of "jubilation all over the world," the Queen of Soul says. "Dancing in Africa, dancing in London, dancing in Japan—people are so happy about this inauguration." Aretha won't divulge what she plans to sing, although she says Obama is definitely due some R-E-S-P-E-C-T.

[Images (3)]

[Quotes (2)]

In this Dec. 4, 2008 file photo, Aretha Franklin performs during the 85th annual Christmas tree lighting at the New York Stock Exchange in New York. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, file)

Aretha Franklin performs at the House of Blues, Friday, Nov. 21, 2008 in Los Angeles. (AP Photo/Shea Walsh)

Aretha Franklin smiles at Barack Obama during a campaign rally at Hart Plaza in Detroit, Monday, Sept. 1, 2008. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)

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I think we all have high hopes for him. People are poised for change and hoping for the best. - Aretha Franklin on Barack Obama

Every day it's gotten more exciting. It's such a great moment in history—in American history, in African-American history—and everybody is just waiting for the moment - Aretha Franklin

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Aretha: World Will Be Dancing in the Streets