How Franklin became the Queen of Soul and loved by millions is the subject of this fairly detailed and very entertaining biofilm that charts her rise from childhood to 1972 and her making of the classic, live-recorded album, Amazing Grace. This project stars Jennifer Hudson, the singer who was handpicked by Franklin to play her. Like a Queen anointing a princess, Franklin deemed: “I’ve made my decision, and it is you, young lady, who I want to play me.” That endorsement makes this Respect the quintessential Franklin biodrama and any others, not so much.

     But it’s “Welcome 2 America” that has music aficionados, journalists, and fans fawning over the superstar all over again.

       LeVar Burton’s evolution as a cultural icon is undeniable. But watching him host “Jeopardy!” is pure joy.  

     A singer-songwriter, Leesa is a storyteller, a soulful voice offering a soundtrack to the narratives of life. The Detroit native’s sound taps into the deep roots of soul and the poetry of jazz.