Aretha Franklin Sets Up Label

Soul legend Aretha Franklin has set up her own record label, more than 45 years into her recording career.

The SAY A LITTLE PRAYER singer has lined up at least two financiers to back ARETHA'S RECORDS. She plans to finalise the deal in her hometown of Detroit, Michigan, after performing at Los Angeles' GREEK THEATER early next month (SEP04) - her first shows in the city in 21 years.

She says, "When you're signed to a major label, you always have to give up some creative control.

"I'm fortunate that (on my next record) Mr (CLIVE) DAVIS and I equally share the creative. With Aretha's Records, I will have 100 per cent creative control."

Franklin will release her own music on the label, but if her sons TEDDY and KELF have not signed deals by the time it is set up, she may offer to release their projects too.