Aretha Franklin Lady Soul 1968 US 1st Press Stereo VG+/VG+

ARETHA FRANKLIN - LADY SOUL

Immerse yourself in one of the most towering masterpieces in the history of American music with the original 1968 US first pressing of Aretha Franklin’s Lady Soul. Released via Atlantic Records during her unmatched late-'60s creative golden run, this specific edition was physically manufactured at Columbia Records' historic pressing plant in Terre Haute, Indiana. Produced by Jerry Wexler and captured on tape by legendary audio engineer Tom Dowd, this 10-track collection solidified Franklin as a generational icon. The record showcases her unparalleled vocal command backed by the telepathic rhythms of the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section (The Swampers) and Eric Clapton’s searing, bluesy guitar solo on "Good to Me as I Am to You". Anchored by definitive soul anthems like the volcanic opener "Chain of Fools", the joyful stride of "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman", and her ferocious cover of Curtis Mayfield's "People Get Ready", this Terre Haute analog document delivers an exceptionally warm, wide-stereo soundstage with remarkable vocal presence.

1968 US release by Atlantic, catalog # SD 8176.  First pressing in stereo, made at Terre Haute plant.  Green/White/Blue Atlantic labels.

Sleeve grades VG+.  Intact spine/seams with some edgewear, great color/finish, clean back, corners dinged but not rounded, little bit of ring wear.  Includes original company inner sleeve.

Vinyl grades VG+.  Plays through without issues.  Standard light surface marks/hairlines present on vinyl surface with a couple light scratches, none of which impact playback.