Aretha Franklin Wants R-E-S-P-E-C-T, Calls Unauthorized Biography 'Trashy'

 Aretha Franklin Wants R-E-S-P-E-C-T, Calls Unauthorized Biography 'Trashy'

Photo Credit: Getty Images

Looks like Aretha Franklin can't get any respect. The powerhouse singer recently blasted the author of her unauthorized biography, Respect: The Life of Aretha Franklin, calling his book "trashy," Yahoo reports.
"As many of you are aware, there is a very trashy book out there full of lies and more lies about me," the Queen of Soul said in a statement. "Clearly the writer has no class, no conscience or standards!"
The writer, seasoned author David Ritz, has also penned biographies of Etta James, Marvin Gaye, Ray Charles, and Smokey Robinson. In fact, he authored a biography of Franklin's in 1999, but, Franklin said he held a 15-year grudge that stemmed from disagreements.
"The writer's actions are obviously vindictive because I edited out some crazy statements he had the gall to try and put in my book written 15 years ago," she said. "Evidently, he has been carrying this hatred ever since."
The book includes passages alledging Franklin's alcoholism, her sexual relations, her jealousy of other female superstars, and the sabotage of her sisters' careers.
However, Ritz views the book as a symbol of appreciation.
"When I renewed my research for this book, I did so without Aretha's blessing, but I did have the support of three of Aretha's closest relatives," Ritz said. "I love her and I love her art, and I tried to honor her story."
No legal action has been made.