Which artist won the first Grammy for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance?

Aretha Franklin won the first Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance in 1968.

She received the inaugural award for “Respect,” her landmark recording of the Otis Redding song. Franklin’s version transformed the song through its commanding vocal, altered arrangement, and emphatic spelling refrain, making it an anthem associated with both the civil rights movement and women’s empowerment.

The category was introduced to recognize leading female singers in rhythm and blues. Franklin’s victory reflected her immediate influence after a run of Atlantic Records hits, including “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)” and “Chain of Fools.”

The award’s name and structure changed repeatedly over the years as the Recording Academy reorganized R&B categories. That is why modern Grammy lists may combine or rename awards that began as separate male and female vocal categories.