Soulful tribute: 'R.E.S.P.E.C.T.' brings the music of Aretha Franklin to Popejoy Hall

You better “Think” about heading to Popejoy Hall on Thursday, Feb. 13, for a powerful performance celebrating the music of Aretha Franklin, the legendary Queen of Soul.

The production features a live band with vocalists singing the songs of one of the greatest soul artists of all time. The evening will be filled with her cherished hits including “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “Think,” “I Knew You Were Waiting For Me,” “Chain of Fools,” “Respect” and many more.

“A lot of the arrangements, I did for the original, when we did it the first time a couple years ago,” said Darnell White, supervising music director, for “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.” “So (we are) going back out with mostly, I think, those same arrangements. And, we’ve always had great singers, and this show is no different. (We have) three amazing singers, incredible band and a little bit of choreography. So it’s pretty amazing and it’s Aretha Franklin, so you can’t really go wrong.”

Franklin’s family has seen the show and “their approval has been met,” according to White.

“I think if the feedback wasn’t good from the family, I don’t think the show would be going out,” he said.

White’s nerves have calmed and he has found his footing on the current tour.

“I think the first time we did the show, I was probably pretty nervous, but I think this time we’ve settled in and I’m more excited,” he said.

White calls it a “gift” to be part of the production.

“I grew up with Aretha’s music, so for me, it’s an absolute honor to just be involved on the creative side of this show,” he said. “Her music is quite personal and special, definitely on my mom’s record player. So, it’s definitely an honor. And, there are some nervous moments, but overall, it’s just exciting to be able to bring it to other people. The audiences love it, so we love doing it.”

Three “R.E.S.P.E.C.T.” vocalists belt out Franklin’s songs night after night.

“The singers are definitely having to give a lot,” White said. “They are fantastic. They all are up to the task and I think they’re all excited too.”

The script for the show has slightly changed since its previous tour.

“We’ve changed the script a little bit from last time, so it’s more of an even distribution, as opposed to last time,” White said. “We had someone be sort of the main Aretha, and then there were the other two (singers). This one is more like they’re all kind of equal parts. (It) definitely helps with the blend.”

When White is back home in New York City, he is a staple in its music scene, according to his website. He has developed a notable reputation as a performer, composer and musical director. White’s a graduate of LaGuardia High School of Music and Art and The Juilliard School.

He has collaborated with many artists over the length of his career including Melba Moore, Brian McKnight, Blaine Krauss, Amma Osei, Willis White, Angela Birchett, David LaMarr and Carlton Jumel Smith, according to his website. White also has performed at New York’s major venues including 54 Below, The Iridium, Birdland, Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Smokey Joe’s Cafe, Sid Gold’s and more.

Soulful tribute: 'R.E.S.P.E.C.T.' brings the music of Aretha Franklin to Popejoy Hal