About the Song
Aretha Franklin’s Think is a raw, empowering anthem that demands attention. Written by Aretha herself and her husband Ted White, the song is a fiery declaration of independence and self-respect. Released in 1968 on her album Aretha Now, Think became an instant classic, showcasing Franklin’s extraordinary vocal power and her ability to command a song with raw intensity.
The track is a departure from the traditional ballad format, opting instead for a driving rhythm and a repetitive, almost hypnotic structure. This musical choice perfectly complements the song’s message of empowerment, as Franklin’s vocals soar above the instrumental bed, demanding to be heard. Her delivery is nothing short of electrifying, filled with a sense of urgency and determination that is both captivating and inspiring.
Beyond its musical brilliance, Think is a cultural touchstone, representing the spirit of the times. The song’s message of self-determination resonated deeply with a generation seeking to break free from societal constraints. Franklin’s powerful performance transformed Think into a rallying cry for women and a symbol of the ongoing fight for equality.
Even decades later, Think remains a potent and relevant song. Its message of independence and self-respect continues to inspire and empower listeners, making it a timeless masterpiece in the history of music.
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Lyrics: “Think”
Think (think) think (think) think (think)
Think (think) think (think) think (think)You better think (think) think about what you’re trying to do to me
Yeah, think (think, think), let your mind go, let yourself be freeLet’s go back, let’s go back, let’s go way on way back when
I didn’t even know you, you couldn’t have been too much more than ten. (just a child)
I ain’t no psychiatrist, I ain’t no doctor with degrees
It don’t take too much high IQ’s to see what you’re doing to meYou better think (think) think about what you’re trying to do to me
Yeah, think (think, think), let your mind go, let yourself be freeOh freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom), freedom, yeah freedom
Freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom), freedom, ooh freedomThere ain’t nothing you could ask I could answer you but I won’t (I won’t)
I was gonna change, but I’m not, if you keep doing things I don’tYou better think (think) think about what you’re trying to do to me
Yeah, think (think, think), let your mind go, let yourself be freePeople walking around everyday, playing games, taking scores
Trying to make other people lose their minds.
Well be careful, you’re gonna lose yours.Yeah, think (think) think about what you’re trying to do to me
Yeah, think (think, think), let your mind go, let yourself be freeYou need me (need me) and I need you (don’t you know)
Without each other there ain’t nothing we can doOh freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom), freedom, yeah freedom
Freedom (freedom), freedom (freedom), freedom, ooh freedomThere ain’t nothing you could ask I could answer you but I won’t (I won’t)
I was gonna change, but I’m not, if you’re doing things I don’tYou better think (think) think about what you’re trying to do to me
Yeah, think (think, think), let your mind go, let yourself be freeYou need me (need me) and I need you (don’t you know)
Without each other there ain’t nothing we can do(Think about – ah me, think about – ah me,
Think about – ah me, think about it)
(Think about – ah me, think about – ah me,
Think about – ah me, think about it)
(Think about – ah me, think about – ah me,
Think about – ah me, think about it)
(Think about – ah me, think about – ah me,
Think about – ah me, think about it)
You had better stop and think before you think, think!