See Aretha Franklin On TODAY In 1990 | TODAY

[@KCNwokoye]

Wow so elegant, briliant, confident and gorgeous.

[@NM-hs8lm]

KC Nwokoye Yes...she was.

[@Talube101]

Aretha Franklin was so beautiful in this interview. I always admired how intelligent and well spoken she was even up to her more recent interviews.

[@leeann6662]

Yes, she was. Something about her here is making me think of Anita Baker as well.

[@hakimbandaru1915]

I respect her singing ability however - she has been incredibly rude in many interviews. She speaks of God but she should have learned humility. Nothing more distasteful than a big ego.

[@KTTMusic-ss1zg]

FACTS 💯

[@jackross876]

Aretha was getting her flirt on. Her speaking voice was so rich a lush.

[@SingKiaMuze]

yessss! I was thinking the same thing. The tone of her speaking voice is so amazing.

[@candicesmith8208]

Definitely some chemistry there!!!!😍

[@slater4280]

Yes she was Lol

[@iamDavidaRose]

This is how she normally speaks. The tone of her voice is soothing.

[@kenyalove3770]

I definitely noticed, after watch numerous interviews

[@cleopatrajones2024]

She looked gorgeous here.

[@fifermcgee5971]

Yes, look at that perfect skin, the warm smile and the twinkle in her eye. What a beautiful woman inside and out.

[@nukeman444]

I thought I was the only one. She was gorgeous.

[@gymnastix]

I agree with you wholeheartedly. The late great Aretha Franklin looks superb in the video seen here! But also, to be frank about the late Miss Franklin, as with many persons in their lives (myself now included), certainly she had her ups and downs with obesity. Miss Franklin also often appeared to be fashion-challenged, and sometimes wearing the least flattering clothing during very high-profile events (such as at presidential inaugurals, etc.). I swear one time Miss Franklin had worn what really amounted to a burlap sack wrapped around her then-very overweight frame. And some of her hats rivaled the legendary gossip columnist Hedda Hopper's for their outrageousness in bad taste. But in this video here, of Miss Franklin being interviewed by Bryant Gumbel on NBC-TV's "Today Show" in 1990, Miss Franklin appears as healthy-looking and stunningly well-dressed as I have ever seen her. Of course, granted, it is more difficult for persons who are obese (compared to persons who are thin) to find flattering fashions. But I also recall when Miss Franklin was at her thinnest weight in the early 1970s (during the "Spirit in the Dark" and "Young, Gifted and Black" albums period), when she must have lost between about 50-75 lbs. from the beginning of her great fame circa 1967-68. Of course, then, Miss Franklin had also often had her hair dyed orange-red, as well sometimes in what I assumed to have been her natural hair coloring but in an Afro hairstyle, which actually looked good on her. It was evident Miss Franklin, then, must have had a very disciplined regimen of diet and exercise and/or diet medication to have looked so svelte. She wore miniskirts and slacks frequently during that period too. Then a few years ago, even as she had aged considerably, I noticed Miss Franklin had lost some considerable amount of weight again. But at that point the weight loss didn't appear to be from a healthy situation, was probably the first public indication of Miss Franklin's illness. And I had also read somewhere, sadly, Miss Franklin weighed only something like 80 lbs. at the time of her death. It is so frighteningly sad how that vicious disease of cancer can ravage a person like that. I have cancer myself now, too, but in early stages. Anyway, just had to chime in here to join you in praising the "Queen of Soul" for this sadly too-infrequent appearance in the video here, when she actually looked healthy and was wearing relatively conservative fashions which also suited her age at the time.

[@whnicjs]

Absolutely, she looks gorgeous

[@719kai719]

@@gymnastix You just couldn't resist leaving a " nice nasty" comment on this video. I guess all the positive kind words were too much for you..had to throw some salt up on there huh. ...

[@brandiee.9158]

She had so much dignity and class how could anyone not Respect her! Beautiful woman, stunning voice and so much more! RIP

[@brownsuga5097]

R.I.P beautiful I'm still crying I never met u but I love your songs ....sending some love to your sons and condolences to your family ...we love you Aretha Franklin ...

[@bigguys45s29]

May she Rest In Peace. What a legend, what a fantastic voice.

[@daphnesmith1686]

She is Flirting but in a discretely and sophisticated matter.

[@ABCDuwachui]

Daphne Smith yes she's being a tad seductive

[@BJknowz]

Daphne Smith Nah. She was charming to everyone.

[@daphnesmith1686]

Sovoya Jackson. Indeed and very UNASSUMING.

[@BJknowz]

Daphne Smith I think she was perhaps humored by bryant gumbel inwardly. I met her once. She gave me the most thoughtful look right into my eyes before signing my autograph and telling me I had a beautiful name. She was warm and kind and loved people.

[@daphnesmith1686]

Sovoya Jackson. Oooh REALLY. YES ur name is ODD and very beautiful. Interestingly, she had a very turbulent childhood. But "When LIFE ask u a question...its hw u ANSWER it". She had NO bitterness and displayed eloquence and courage through life trials and tribulations.

[@jcextranow]

Her voice as so calming and her presence was so elegant. She truly knew how to work her charm during a broadcast and on the stage. A true legend and graceful celebrity.

[@ManuelGuzman067]

She looked good with short hair beautiful lady rip 👑

[@vwgolf6487]

Those long wigs she favored were horrible!

[@2Duv4Luv]

Aretha was so beautiful and regal in this interview. R.I.P. Queen of Soul!🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏👑👑👑👑👑💝

[@Someonesaidthis]

Aretha looks fabulous in this interview... She was a goddess!

[@zaharaazure73]

Aretha looks very classy and elegant here . She will be truly missed.

[@guidedhands5811]

“I’m just a baby” THE HUMILITY! And today’s artists get a few dollars and have a few records and think they’re doing something smh.

[@itsolivier]

after today music is over...

[@ekop1778]

ITS CALLED RAP KRAP WITH NO SENSE AND LIP SYNCH KRAP

Guided Hands So true! And their fans immediately call them “legends” LOL The delusion!

[@TheMichelleRena]

I took it as if she wanted him to know that she wasn't too old for him LOL - she definitely was flirting, I thought it was cute. She was definitely a one of kind lady. We'll miss you Aretha!

[@chrisa8325]

Guided Hands DON'T shame others Just to uplift someone else, RESPECT and Love all.

[@janetcousins7250]

Aretha was a gorgeous woman and that legendary sultry voice Wow!

[@BEASTPRINCE09]

SHE LOOKS STUNNING HERE

[@ells80]

Classic, intelligent, graceful, regal, feminine lady! #allhailthequeen

[@beautifullymastered1914]

The fact that no one ever asked her about her skin care regimen is mind baffling do y’all see how good her skin was for years and years! She was so beautiful may she Rest In Peace, at the age of 30 I truly realize we lost a legend! ❤️❤️🥀🥀

[@arcoiris6313]

Classy as they come! Love her, grew up with her music , Rest In Peace lovely lady ❤️😢😘

[@reneesydnor-henry4538]

She is so beautiful here and her demeanor is just so gracious

[@joannbrooker9282]

A great musician and a MASTER vocalist. I've loved her music and what she represents in the Civil Rights Movement since I was a child and that means perhaps 40 years. We all shall pass on but sometimes when we lose a person whose been the "soundtrack to our lives", it hurts. Rest in Paradise you amazing woman. Teardrops.

[@kittykat428]

Bryant sounded like he wanted to get some dirt or get a crazy reaction from her....earthly farewell for now Queen.

[@rockingrobin1350]

Kitty he's a jerk. I worked at a hotel on Universal Studio Hills in L.A. Bryant was a frequent clientele who stayed there on his journalist assignments. He was outright as hateful as a human could be. He behaved like he was mentally disturbed.

[@SandraTillmansandratillman1]

Aretha's eyes will mess you up if you keep looking at them...they are so mysteriously beautiful! RIP Queen

[@christhomas5761]

Aretha is absolutely gorgeous and yes her eyes are beautiful .

[@Just-Princess]

Wow, this was literally the day after I was born. How time flies. Aretha is and will always be a legend.

[@kellevision78]

I did not like how he interviewed her. Show some RESPECT.

[@dorothysimon4808]

He is a fool!

[@JD-ro1kp]

Exactly.!

[@mandyno5328]

He looks like a clown. Like some kind of fake corious antusiast

[@kaliph4424]

I feel you

[@LoveFirstYou]

I agree, especially the ending: (while cutting her off) "Take care of yourself." BOY, BYE.

[@andyward510]

Rest in peace Queen Aretha

[@angelaking8324]

You will always be in my heart. You are a Bridge Over Trouble Water!

[@crunchymartinez1627]

Always poised, calm and secure. Well mannered and all around wonderful. Her music will live forever. ❤️

[@joylewis2910]

I love how she controlled this interview with dignity and class! Her autobiography is one of my favorite books.

[@dddddadadad1796]

Ms. Franklin was so controlled, smooth, and yet FUNNY! And u could just tell she was a funny person to talk with if u were ever blessed to

[@HoneyHoneyBaby]

So beautiful, brilliant, talented, and classy..Rest in peace, Queen!!!

[@ekop1778]

GOING RIDING ON A FREWAY IN A PINK CADILLAC

[@DizziB23]

HoneyHoneyBaby I can hear the Queen saying "You're not so Bad yourself, Honey" 😊

[@HoneyHoneyBaby]

Thank you so much, RoDi Baker!!!!

[@DizziB23]

HoneyHoneyBaby Anytime 4 U...

[@HoneyHoneyBaby]

RoDi Baker Awh :-)

[@njidekapatricia3148]

She is so beautiful r.i.p queen

[@mrs.glamqueen8346]

So beautiful her hair looks so luxurious 😘 rest sweet angel

[@DavidRichardson95]

The _true_ queen of soul. And she looked great here!! RIP Ms. Franklin.

[@biggman5560]

So Absolutely Beautiful and Sweet & Kind...I Love and still play her Music.....Rip Queen Of Soul Sip

[@brendahunter6217]

You are the best . You were there for me when nobody was. You words fill my soul with happiness. When I cried your songs comfort me.when I was alone you held my my hand and lead me in the light .

[@methatswho300]

he is terrible..his interview is like an interrogation..

[@robertcameronjones]

Yes. All canned questions. He could have followed her answers with his next questions - I think she had something to say.

[@bphlatsax75]

It sounds to me like he's throwing a little shade.

[@samuelrosslee408]

Byant Gumbel STILL IS the BEST interviewer in the Business. You have NO idea what you're talking about.

[@carmensandiego223]

If I were u I hate me 2 it's just his style

[@dancinonasmoothedge]

If I were u I hate me 2 LOL YELP

[@rickf.sourdiff5082]

Love Aretha Franklin and her music . Did my Christmas ham just they way Aretha Franklin did it.

[@BJknowz]

Bryant Gumbel was so pompous and annoying. She handled him with class.

[@SuperSoFlow]

Sovoya Jackson It seemed to be a prerequisite for the males on that show. So many ageist questions. She looked fabulous here!

[@BJknowz]

Sonya Flowers Tale as old as time, yes

[@colorpurple4623]

He seems very uncomfortable in her regal royal present.

[@sharongrant1863]

I don't think he could handle Aretha the woman, and the brilliance, beauty and sexiness of the QUEEN! #hotandbothered

[@BJknowz]

Sharon Grant, Ryt!

[@bevkay4170]

Campared to many who commented, I’m very old. Someone who feels fortunate that I grew up playing Aretha in our home and everywhere we went dancing. During that time in the 60s 70s, music was all we had to escape the reality of my brothers in VNam. Aretha was there for us in a very turbulent time in American history. Hard to believe she’s actually gone...

[@carverhighalumni]

Yes I agree... it was a turbulent time. But the music was something to behold. My oldest brother served in Vietnam too. We were very fortunate to have" Re-Re", Jazz music, groups of Motown and many other fantastic bands Isley Brothers, * EWF, singers Marvin Gaye & Tammy Terrell, Donny Hathaway to get us right on through. Blessings...

[@kevindeforest6489]

She has such grace. And puts up with so many ridiculous questions from the media.

[@cindyrolle6476]

The beautiful Aretha...enough said!

[@GinoHallII]

How could anyone dislike the video. RIP Ms Franklin

[@charlenewalker7891]

because of the interviewer, not her baby; though I didn't dislike it the video...trying to give one the benefit

[@bz-jg8eg]

I think the dislike is for bryant gumbel. His lack of respect for Aretha shown by the arrogance, is the Only thing I see bad here. The Queen Aretha, "May she rest in peace" was Flawless, absolutely Beautiful in this video. I admire how she kept her cool and grace, no matter how "full of himself" bryant was. CLEARLY he was intimidated by her. A pity, he couldn't just simply be kind. What a gift she was to us all.

[@donnahill5050]

True Diva, elegantly done!

[@tressa3399]

She spoke very few words because she did not want stress her voice. She said there were days that she never spoke.

[@luvinmysailor]

Tressa really, r u serious? Was she trying to preserve her voice?

[@tressa3399]

Actually yes she said it once

[@msbren8]

DearJRenae yes Ms. Aretha said she would not speak unless necessary to preserve her voice.

[@NajSinghs...NajNibbles]

She held a lot of painful secrets. She was wise not a woman of few words.

[@SEPTEMBER2127]

Aunt Aretha did life her way, Lady soul looks beautiful!!!!! She led a long, full, generous life!!!! My mother who is asleep was a loyal fan & blessed to meet Ms.Franklin. R.I.P Queen, you have arrived alongside my mamma in the presence of GOD!!!!!!!!!

[@nr8337]

Back when her hair styles were sensible and practical. Gorgeous woman!!

[@jennyjones3978]

She was Beautiful 😍

[@champagnerenee9353]

So beautiful here😍

[@valeriecheersbrown4829]

When you love what you do, it never gets old. - Valerie Cheers RIP QUEEN

[@brendahunter6217]

I thank God for bring you in my life.

[@AR-nk8sy]

Elegant, beautiful, graceful, smart. What a wonderful woman.

[@mizcasualful]

There is no other voice in this land that could or can equal her vocal ability.

[@tenebaum6595]

Aww she was a cutie

[@sweetapplepie70]

always is an was darling I miss her sooo much. Have a great holiday😚 Sweet Home ✨ 🏠❤🏠💃💛🏃🎶🎶

[@magirikamau1584]

RIP Aretha Franklin 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽. Thank you for blessing us with your beautiful, powerful voice.

[@therealivrionnaelemelem3614]

I love you so much aratha Franklin rest in peace

[@carolynwhite9975]

I am gleaning from the Queen. She is poised and sophisticated during this interview. 💖💖💖💖💖

[@michelledonnan404]

Watching her movies Respect right now .I'm totally into it.Love her music .She was a true legend .RIP Arethra.🙏🙏🙏your music lives on

[@michellejohnson9270]

She is so cool, calm and collected. Along with absolutely Beautiful 😍

[@laruejones6250]

Beautiful Black women can't get no better than this,💖💗💗🙏🙏🙏

[@khrisansapatua3464]

she is so beautiful here

[@TheJholmes822]

Simply Beautiful Aretha!!!!

[@wdyyat2321]

Beautiful lady Ms. Aretha Franklin. I love all of her recordings. Talented pianist & beautiful singing voice. I can't believe she's gone. Rest In Peace beautiful QUEEN of SOUL Ms. Aretha Franklin!

[@iantawashington-allotey9913]

I love the way Ms. Franklin is so positive

[@mariaengracio4849]

Madame ARETHA FRANKLIN was, is and allways will be " A VOICE TO REMEMBER" ..." Forever and ever you will be in my heart..."

[@champagnerenee9353]

She looked so beautiful here! My heart and soul aches

[@feliciatanimowo2420]

I love her style and she always looks stunning that is to say Beautiful from head to toe in her hats and hair styles, chothes and shoes. I love all her songs and most of all the Singing her voice 🌹🌹 Rest in peace Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin

[@Pooquie1]

Such a lady.........the Queen's legacy will last forever. Rip my Ree.

[@tammyharris3384]

She was so classy and poised. Rest well Queen.

[@marias7599]

She looks beautiful here

[@ronaldopedro7701]

It was so beautiful that day, chic, classic. Oh how I miss you!

[@calaplant07]

She look so angelic there to me RIP

[@allisonhester8396]

Beautiful....thank you. Rip❤️

[@tremaine861]

She looks so good here, her ensemble, the hair, everything. Classy Aretha

[@julieherr7962]

I came back to Aretha Franklin long over due. She was so special. Any musician no matter what your venue is appreciates God given talent . There is a new Angel in Heaven .

[@joserivera2697]

Love her always, and she is in heavens now!

[@AC-kl8gi]

I love Aretha's professionalism.

[@ellenlewis6716]

GoD is good and allthe time GOD is good .See his grace and mercy in the life lived got to see her flowers and the beauty they brought. I pray to hold all that then hear well done my good and faithful servant.GOD bless all who reads this love forever lives!!!!see you later ms Franklin aka Queen of soul

[@beautifulsungoddess2015]

Class act! RIP QUEEN. You gave all you had to give & I'm grateful for the music that you shared to uplift me since I was 8 & I'm now 59. Gone but never, ever forgotten. Long live the Queen

[@IzzysCuisines]

Never Knew That There Would Ever Be A Time That I Would Have To Miss Her Sooooooo MUCH!

[@musicjunkie7549]

He has Music Royalty in front of him.. Man my heart would have dropped to my feet

[@googleuser-mu3ic]

Simply Beautiful!!!

[@sabrinajohnson4360]

She is so elegant posed and very regal. Just awesome.

[@Crewelperleology]

This interview was poorly conducted. Gumbel seems out of his element.

[@Queenalika85]

She is so pretty rip queen

[@m.antoniosims342]

Beautiful Aretha! That smoky voice will truly be missed!!

[@Benyikoko]

She was 48 here

[@johntucker8419]

Benyikoko 😱

[@NM-hs8lm]

She was very beautiful in her middle age.

[@nuknuknuk111]

Benyikoko black don't crack

[@beautifullymastered1914]

Benyikoko beautiful and no one asked about her skin care regimen! This woman aged well! Miss her so much!

[@Benyikoko]

Yes she was absolutely beautiful❤

[@fay-amieaspen6046]

RIP Aretha. Total respect for all you gave us!

[@temesharadaniels793]

Classy, Amazing

[@cthompson8348]

Areatha was articulate and handled herself with the dignity of a Queen...I have never called her that until now.

[@LifeofAaron]

He asked a lot of... not smart questions 😐

[@madwalka6402]

Life of Aaron I was like “Stfu!” 💀

[@sweetazzpiew8490]

Exactly, the love of singing never goes away!! Oh the joy!!

[@sandraallen7583]

I MISS HER ON 🌎 EARTH... AMEN AND HALLELUJAH... 👼 🙏 ⛪ ✝ 📖

[@ronaldmacafee76]

My home girl was beautiful as well as talented.

[@cawanajohnson1966]

So pretty RIP Queen!!!!

[@jacquelineperry8740]

She Understood money and its value and was never greedy.just wanted to live comfortably never intrestead in overdoing it she knew how much was enough she didn't want to be controlled by money by wanting to indulge she knew what would make her comfortable were she didnt have to stress....smart woman....

[@iantawashington-allotey9913]

Such a beautiful woman.

[@ATL4LIFE2023]

She said I flew here( smiling) he smiled. Love this💋💞💖💕💓

[@nmfd72]

absolutely love her, RIP Aretha!! So beautiful here.

[@sharonbrooks6805]

She was a beautiful lady very classy the world has lost a very talented SOUL