Who managed Aretha Franklin's early career and also served as her father?

C. L. Franklin managed Aretha Franklin’s early career and was her father. A prominent Baptist minister and civil-rights activist, he recognized Aretha’s talent while she was still a child and helped guide her first steps as a professional gospel singer.

When Aretha was 12, C. L. Franklin began managing her. He took her on his gospel caravan tours, where she performed in churches around the country. He also helped her obtain her first recording opportunity with the Detroit-based J.V.B. Records, leading to early gospel releases such as “Never Grow Old.”

C. L. Franklin continued supporting her transition into secular music. When Aretha wanted to follow Sam Cooke into pop recording, her father helped produce a demo that attracted Columbia Records’ attention. He also served as her manager when she signed with Columbia in 1960, although the label’s producers shaped much of her recording work.

Aretha’s relationship with her father was both personal and professional. C. L. Franklin’s ministry gave her a musical foundation, while his national reputation and connections helped introduce her to audiences beyond Detroit’s New Bethel Baptist Church.