About the song
“Think” by Aretha Franklin, released in 1968, is one of the Queen of Soul’s most powerful and enduring songs. Featured on her landmark album “Aretha Now”, the track was written by Aretha Franklin herself, along with Ted White, her then-husband. With its dynamic blend of gospel, soul, and rhythm and blues, “Think” is not just a song about personal empowerment but also a sharp commentary on societal expectations and gender roles. The song’s message of self-respect, independence, and the importance of clarity in relationships resonated deeply with listeners at the time and continues to do so today.
The opening lines, “You better think (think), think about what you’re trying to do to me,” immediately set the tone for a song that is both confrontational and empowering. Franklin’s commanding voice, full of both strength and vulnerability, is the perfect vehicle for the message of the song. The lyrics urge the listener—especially women—to reflect on their worth, question their circumstances, and demand better treatment in their personal relationships. In essence, “Think” is a call to self-awareness and self-respect, an anthem for anyone seeking to reclaim control over their life.
From a cultural and social impact perspective, “Think” became an anthem of empowerment in the 1960s, a time when civil rights and feminist movements were gaining momentum. Franklin, already a major force in the music industry, became a symbol of both racial and gender empowerment. The song’s release coincided with the rise of soul music, which played an essential role in expressing the emotional and political struggles of African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement. However, its themes of independence and self-respect also resonated deeply with the growing feminist movement, making it an important anthem for women everywhere.
Musically, “Think” is a brilliant fusion of soul and gospel, driven by a dynamic piano riff and punctuated by powerful backing vocals. The song’s upbeat tempo and infectious rhythm make it instantly recognizable, and its energetic chorus encourages listeners to engage both emotionally and physically with the music. Franklin’s vocal delivery, as always, is filled with passion, power, and precision, showcasing her ability to merge technical skill with raw emotion.
The impact of “Think” extended beyond its initial release. It became a major hit, reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and earning Franklin one of her many Grammy Awards. The song’s legacy has endured, with countless artists from various genres citing Aretha Franklin’s performance of “Think” as an inspiration. It has also been featured in films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its place as a timeless anthem of empowerment and resilience.
In summary, “Think” by Aretha Franklin is much more than just a song—it is a statement of independence, self-respect, and empowerment that continues to resonate with audiences across generations. With its unforgettable melody, commanding vocals, and socially relevant message, “Think” remains one of Aretha Franklin’s most iconic and influential tracks.
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Lyrics
You better think (think)Think about what you’re trying to do to meThink (think, think)Let your mind go, let yourself be freeLet’s go back, let’s go backLet’s go way on, way back whenI didn’t even know youYou couldn’t have been too much more than ten (just a child)I ain’t no psychiatrist, I ain’t no doctor with degreesBut, it don’t take too much high IQ’sTo see what you’re doing to meYou better think (think)Think about what you’re trying to do to meYeah, think (think, think)Let your mind go, let yourself be freeOh, freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom)Oh, freedom, yeah, freedomFreedom (freedom), oh, oh freedom (freedom)Freedom, oh freedomHey, think about it, think about itThere ain’t nothing you could askI could answer you but I won’t (I won’t)But I was gonna change, but I’m notIf you keep doing things I don’tYou better think (think)Think about what you’re trying to do to meOh Lord, think (think)Let your mind go, let yourself be freePeople walking around everydayPlaying games, taking scoresTrying to make other people lose their mindsAh, be careful you don’t lose yours, ohThink (think)Think about what you’re trying to do to me, oohThink (think)Let your mind go, let yourself be freeYou need me (need me)And I need you (don’t you know)Without each other there ain’t nothing people can do, ohOh, hey, think about it, baby (What are you trying to do me)Yeah, oh baby, think about it now, yeah(Think about forgiveness, dream about forgiveness)Think about forgivenessThink about it, baby, babyThink about forgivenessThink about forgivenessThink about forgiveness