Aretha Franklin's sessions with the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section (a.k.a. "The Swampers") in 1967 produced 3 albums-worth of material and a string of hit singles, including a little song called "Respect." And while music historians and other list-makers rightfully cite "Respect" as a landmark recording, not only for its deep groove but also its cultural impact, I prefer her gritty take on soulster Don Covay's "Chain of Fools," a funky R&B workout that began its life as a song about field laborers until Covay changed the lyrics for Franklin, turning it into a song about a woman who realizes her man is two-timing her.
From moment one, Franklin sets this track ablaze. The fact that the verses are as hot (or hotter) than the hook itself is a testament to her ability to interpret and own a song completely.
But, for me, it's her riveting delivery on the breakdown that makes it the best Franklin track of all time. With just a kick drum and some backing singers, clapping and ooh-ing in time behind her, she easily could have let the energy level drop. Instead, she testifies like her life and love depend on it. And it's gripping.
And as I've said before, The Swampers can do no wrong. Alongside Stax's house band Booker T. & The MG's, they were the tightest soul musicians of the late 60s. I mean, just listen to Jimmy Johnson and Joe South's greasy tremolo guitars, Tommy Cogbill's thumping bass, and Roger Hawkins on drums. It doesn't get funkier than that groove.
In fact, next to Franklin, Hawkins completely steals this show. His steady, thumping heartbeat on the bass drum and the crack of his sticks against those snares are the stuff of Highway 61 roadhouses. But then his lively fills and swinging sixteenth notes on the ride cymbal after the breakdown are like an aural signature, letting you know who funkafied the track.
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