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Franklin was a highly decorated and celebrated artist in the music industry, with a long list of awards and recognitions to her name. She received several prestigious honors, including the Grammy Legend Award in 1991, the National Medal of Arts in 1999, the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005, the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1994, and even a Pulitzer Prize Special Citation in 2019. Additionally, she was inducted into both the UK Music Hall of Fame in 2005 and into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1987.
Franklin’s exceptional talent was recognized and valued by many, including her home state of Michigan, which declared her a “natural resource” in 1985. Rolling Stone magazine even ranked her first on their list of the “100 Greatest Singers of All Time.”
While the numerous accolades are impressive, witnessing Franklin’s talent firsthand was truly awe-inspiring. One particular performance showcased her vocal abilities to the fullest – her impromptu rendition of “Nessun Dorma” at the 1998 Grammy Awards. The song gained popularity after Luciano Pavarotti performed it at the 1990 FIFA World Cup, and he was scheduled to perform it at the awards ceremony. However, Pavarotti fell ill, and Franklin was asked to fill in last minute.
Despite having little to no rehearsal with the live band, Franklin delivered a stunning and powerful performance that left the audience in awe. Even those who were not fans of opera or Puccini had to acknowledge her skill and commanding presence on stage. It was a testament to her incredible talent and unwavering professionalism.
