Aretha Franklin is ready to get back to music, and she's planning on doing so with some big names on her new album.
The Queen of Soul recently celebrated her 72nd birthday, and made a huge announcement. According to Billboard, the R&B veteran has teamed up with singer/ producer Babyface as well as Outkast MC, Andre 3000, for her next album.
"So, I'm just waiting for [Babyface] to finish that so he can finish my tracks please...And I think Andre 2000 - is it two or three? 3000 is going to be doing some of the tracks with him," Franklin said during her birthday celebration at the Ritz-Carlton in New York City on Saturday (Mar. 22).
During an interview with Rolling Stone, Franklin spoke highly of Andre 3000 saying, "I love everything he does. He's got a groove that I really, really like."
She says once she sings over the tracks recently sent to her by Babyface, she is aiming for a June release.
Franklin also revealed what her ideal birthday gift would be, dropping a hint to any music execs in the building.
"I'm looking for a record deal for my granddaughter Victorie, and my son Kecalf. I would be happy with that," she said.
Clive Davis, Denzel Washington Congressman Charles Rangel and Judge Mathis were among those in attendance.
Are you looking forward to hearing new music from Aretha Franklin? What do you think of her working with Babyface and Andre 3000?
Sound off below.
