Wish I had been there last night: Aretha Franklin dances, sings at 69th birthday party

[Faygo Kid]

New York — Aretha Franklin proved her voice is still divine at 69 as she gave a brief but rousing performance at a swank birthday party in her honor.

Tony Bennett, Smokey Robinson, music mogul Clive Davis, Bette Midler and Gayle King were among the celebrities on hand to pay tribute to the Queen of Soul on Friday night at a late-night birthday party at a Central Park Hotel.

"It's a fabulous moment," said Franklin, showing off her noticeably thinner frame in a flowing white and gold gown as she sat at a table with several gifts.

Bennett, who called Franklin "one of a kind" was one of those who came with a present — and his was unique.

"I also paint, so she knows about that," he said. "A long time ago, she said, 'I'd love to have you do a painting of me,' and I remembered that, and when I heard I was coming here, I just knocked off a quick sketch tonight and gave it to her tonight." . . .

From The Detroit News: http://detnews.com/article/20110326/ENT09/103260418/Aretha-Franklin-dances--sings-at-69th-birthday-party#ixzz1HlGh2R85
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Happy Birthday, Queen of Soul! And many more. I sure hope Tony Bennett, Smokey, Bette and the rest show up at mine this year. If not, I can dream.

[One Voice]

1. May she have many more!

Bet that was an awesome party :toast:

[hlthe2b]

2. Darn... I wanted to see Tony Bennett's sketch of her

How dare they not include a photo. ;)

I'm convinced she had a gastric procedure of some type, though she denies it. No matter... Just want to see her regain her good health. Here's to you Ms. Aretha! :toast: