http://www.blackamericaweb.com/?q=articles/entertainment/blak_music_month/34310
The Queen of Soul is not renowned for her ice-skating skills, although you’d assume that anyone who grew up in Detroit must have some basic abilities. But Aretha Franklin is certainly known for her peerless voice, and it’s that fine instrument that will be on display on NBC’s “Fashion On Ice.”
The skating bonanza stars Olympic medalists dressed in clothing by designers Betsey Johnson and Gilles Mendel of J Mendel performing to hit songs and to a live performance by Franklin.
Hosted by American gold medalist Tara Lipinski and former “Victoria’s Secret” model Karolina Kurkova, “Fashion On Ice” should appeal to fans of skating, music and fashion. The participating skaters are a who’s who of national and Olympic champions, including Americans Sarah Hughes, Sasha Cohen, Johnny Weir and Alissa Czisny, Canada’s Joannie Rochette, and Brits Sinead and John Kerr.
“Fashion on Ice” airs on NBC on Sunday, Nov. 13 from 4 to 6 p.m.
Franklin’s latest single, “How Long I’ve Been Waiting,” is available for download now.
She was recently honored as part of the American Music Masters series and the “Women Who Rock” exhibit at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in Cleveland. It was a week-long series devoted to Franklin’s accomplishments that included clips of vintage performances, memorabilia from her career, a lecture on soul music and black womanhood and a seminar that featured musicians she’s worked with.
To wrap up the week, Franklin performed at a tribute concert with Jerry Butler, Lauryn Hill, Chaka Khan, Ronald Isley and Dennis Edwards. The superstar even walked around the exhibits to the surprise of her fans.
Franklin, the first woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, also received an honorary degree in Humanities from Case Western University.
