Queen Of Soul Returns In Throwback ‘Lady Marmalade’ Duet
Hollywood Life shares Getty image of an iconic performance and still wows audiences today.
Reshmi Das has over four years of experience as a content writer, covering parenting and films. She writes for Hollywoodjunction and Momjunction. Her interest in journaling and writing made this biotechnology postgraduate to take up content as her full-time profession.
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Hollywood Life’s latest Instagram post hauled us back to a legendary stage moment, reminding fans why the late Aretha Franklin remains the undisputed Queen of Soul. The post features a Getty Images shot of Franklin joining forces with rising star Kolbi Jordan for a stirring rendition of the Labelle classic “Lady Marmalade.”
Queen Of Soul Reunion Flashback
The Instagram post by Hollywood Life (@hollywoodlife) dropped this rare photo. Captured by Getty Images, it shows Aretha Franklin commanding the stage alongside Kolbi Jordan, delivering every note of “Lady Marmalade” with the same power and finesse that earned Franklin her Queen of Soul crown. Although Franklin passed away in 2018, this image bridges the past with the present, showcasing a timeless performance that still resonates today.
Kolbi Jordan’s Rise
Kolbi Jordan first captured national attention as a finalist on Season 23 of The Voice in 2023. Known for her soulful interpretation of country and R&B tunes, Jordan has built a dedicated following online, earning acclaim from fans and critics alike. Her collaboration with Franklin—while a surprise to many—underlines her ability to stand shoulder to shoulder with one of music’s greatest legends.
Legacy Of “lady Marmalade”
Originally recorded by Labelle in 1974, “Lady Marmalade” became an anthem of bold vocals and high drama. Franklin’s take on the song at this special event added gospel-inflected runs and deep emotion. That energy carried over seamlessly into Jordan’s verse, fusing Franklin’s decades-long expertise with Jordan’s fresh, youthful flair.
Beyond its infectious chorus and French-inspired hook, the song has seen numerous revivals—from the 2001 Moulin Rouge! soundtrack featuring Christina Aguilera, Lil’ Kim, Mýa and Pink to this unforgettable live duet. Hollywood Life’s choice to spotlight this Getty image not only honors Franklin’s enduring influence but also reminds viewers that her artistry continues to inspire new generations.
Franklin’s Enduring Impact
During her career, Franklin amassed 18 Grammy Awards, including multiple wins for Best R&B Vocal Performance, and in 1987 she became the first female performer inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Her gospel roots and commanding delivery paved the way for countless female vocalists. Jordan herself credited Franklin as a personal inspiration in a 2023 Instagram story, writing, “She’s my North Star.” That authentic admiration shines through in this performance, captured so vividly in Hollywood Life’s post.
Fans quickly flooded the comments on the Instagram post, with many praising Jordan’s poise and thanking Hollywood Life for sharing a slice of music history. One viewer wrote, “Aretha still reigns supreme! What a moment to witness.” Another chimed in, “Kolbi deserves every bit of the spotlight—she held her own with a true icon.”
In an era when throwback moments trend daily across social media, this particular snapshot stands out for its emotional weight. It’s a testament to the power of live performance and the way legacy artists like Franklin can elevate emerging talents. It also sparks renewed interest in Franklin’s catalog, driving streaming numbers for her classic hits.
More than a decade after Franklin’s final bow, images like this keep her spirit alive—and remind us why she earned the title Queen of Soul. The Getty image shared by Hollywood Life does more than spark nostalgia; it cements a bridge between eras, celebrating the indelible mark of a musical titan and the promise of a rising star.
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