“Think” is a classic released in 1968 by the queen of soul, Aretha Franklin. In this post, I will look into the song’s instrumentation & arrangement, to hopefully understand how it become to be one of the most iconic and timeless songs of the 20th century.
The instrumentation of “Think” is designed to create a dynamic and energetic sound that complements the song’s message of independence and empowerment. Additionally, the catchy and danceable groove adds to its appeal.
The standout feature of the song is Aretha Franklin’s impressive vocals, which captivate listeners and convey an empowering message. The gospel-inspired background vocals add to the song’s appeal and reflect Franklin’s roots in gospel music. The call-and-response style of the background vocals creates a sense of community. The brass section, consisting of trumpets, saxophones, and trombones, is crucial to the arrangement and complements Franklin’s vocals, adding to the celebratory and empowering message. The drums, bassline, piano, and electric guitar create a groovy and playful atmosphere, encouraging listeners to dance. Each instrument adds its own rhythmic embellishments, contributing to the song’s improvisational yet effortless feel.
The arrangement of “Think” is meticulously designed to make each element have a strong effect. The song starts with a catchy piano riff that sets the mood. Franklin’s powerful vocals instantly grab the listener’s attention. The arrangement gradually becomes more intense with each section, culminating in a powerful chorus.
Overall, “Think” effectively conveys a strong message through its music and arrangement. Each instrument is given a chance to stand out, contributing to the song’s lasting relevance and ability to inspire multiple generations.
Franklin, A. (1968) ‘Think’, Aretha Now [Spotify]. United States, Warner Music. Available at : https://open.spotify.com/track/4yQw7FR9lcvL6RHtegbJBh (Accessed: 26 November 2023).
Hamilton, J. (2018) Aretha Franklin was the defining voice of the 20th century, Slate Magazine. Available at: https://slate.com/culture/2018/08/aretha-franklin-dead-the-singer-was-the-defining-voice-of-the-20th-century.html (Accessed: 01 December 2023).