Down but Never Out

In 1972, the great gospel singer Mahalia Jackson died. Aretha performed at Jackson's funeral in Chicago, singing “Precious Lord, Take My Hand” as she had at Dr. King's funeral. It was a great loss for Aretha, who had looked up to Jackson since childhood.

One year later, Aretha's mentor and inspiration, Clara Ward, passed away. Aretha later remembered Clara as “dramatic, daring, exciting, [and] courageous.” Ward always encouraged Aretha to perform, and she inspired much of Aretha's personal performance style. It was a great loss. At Ward's funeral, Aretha sang “The Day Is Past and Gone,” in honor of her old friend.