Recently, we saw Jennifer Hudson take on the role of Aretha Franklin in the biographical drama Respect, not long after Cynthia Erivo portrayed the Queen of Soul in the anthology series, Genius: Aretha. However, these Hollywood stars aren't the only ones maintaining the legacy of the hitmaker.
Back in February, the “Respect” singer's granddaughter, Grace Franklin, auditioned for American Idol with two songs—“Killing Me Softly with His Song” and “Ain’t No Way.” Sadly, the 15-year-old's audition did not advance her to the next level of competition (to the disappointment of Katy Perry, who ended up walking off set). But, it doesn't seem like this will be the last we see of Grace.
In a new interview on TODAY, the teen reflected on the legacy of her grandma, and how she keeps the legend's spirit alive while she sings. “I feel [my grandmother's] presence with me any time I perform,” Grace said. “I always think of how she used to prepare in her dressing room and just her words of encouragement whenever me and my siblings ever perform: To always remember that God is with you on stage and whatever happens, you know that you're great.”
