I run for the bus, dear/
While riding I think of us, dear.

Aretha Franklin’s “I Say A Little Prayer” was a heavily covered song when it came out. Several of the top divas of the time took a shot at it, but Aretha Franklin is the one who really nailed it. Her version sounds happy, free flowing and loving—which is what this song should be about. Other versions sound robotic or stilted.

Notice Aretha’s mic work…she belts out several notes, but they don’t sound overwhelming because she steps away from the mic. Also, her runs are tight and minimal. And there is minimal vibrato. This is how you should sing.

I think this is a much better example of Aretha Franklins work that “Respect”. She shows off a greater range and there is more nuisance in this song. I also think Respect gets annoying with the spelling and the repetition. The piano in “Say a Little Prayer” sounds playful and of course we have the standard Motown background singers.

I Say A Little Prayer Lyrics

The moment I wake up
Before I put on my makeup
I say a little prayer for you
While combing my hair, now
And wondering what dress to wear, now
I say a little prayer for you

Forever, forever, you’ll stay in my heart
And I will love you
Forever, forever, we never will part
Oh, how I’ll love you
Together, together, that’s how it must be
To live without you
Would only be heartbreak for me

I run for the bus, dear
While riding I think of us, dear
I say a little prayer for you
At work I just take time
And all through my coffee break-time
I say a little prayer for you
Forever, forever, you’ll stay in my heart
And I will love you

Forever, forever we never will part
Oh, how I’ll love you
Together, together, that’s how it must be
To live without you
Would only be heartbreak for me

My darling believe me
For me there is no one
But you

written by Burt Bacharach