Aretha Franklin first released her take on “Respect”, unquestionably the most successful version of the song to date, on this day in 1967 (or 1966, depending on who you ask). To celebrate its 43rd anniversary, let’s take a moment to reflect on what may well be the best version of this song evar: that done by the genius Kevin Rowland and his merry Midnight Runners.
Also, anyone who doesn’t like Dexys or thinks they’re defined by “Come On Eileen” is a fool. (Not that “Come On Eileen” isn’t a great track in it’s own right…)
