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Think: 2-Part Choral Octavo

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Think: 2-Part Choral Octavo

Words and music by Aretha Franklin and Ted White / arr. Tom Anderson and Jack Zaino

Item: 00-52248

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Description
"You better think!" Don't miss this roof-raising arrangement of Aretha Franklin's unstoppable R and B hit. The instantly recognizable melody is passed from section to section while others sing hip and harmonic backups. A handful of short, riff-like solos drive the arrangement to a powerful finish. It's a sassy stand out, with a soulful 60s SoundTrax that really kicks!

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Additional Details
Series: Alfred Pop Choral Series
Publisher: Alfred Music
Page Count: 8
UPC: 038081600772
SKU: 00-52248

More about this title

About the Composer: Aretha Franklin

Aretha Franklin (1942-2018) fundamentally changed what popular music could be. As a composer, vocalist, and arranger, she brought classical training, jazz sophistication, and deep gospel roots into every song she touched. Her influence on choral music education extends far beyond her recordings; her approach to phrasing, dynamic control, and emotional authenticity has shaped how singers across genres think about interpretation and presence.

Franklin's compositions and arrangements demand vocal maturity and musical conviction from performers. Her work rewards singers who understand that technique serves expression, not the reverse. In educational settings, her music opens conversations about artistic agency, cultural history, and the power of the human voice.

Why we love this

This arrangement captures everything that made the original unstoppable while staying completely singable for developing choirs. The melody's recognizable arc keeps singers engaged, the riff-based solos provide performance excitement without requiring advanced vocal technique, and the harmonic backups give non-melody singers rhythmic, interesting material that feels integral to the groove rather than secondary.

What to expect

Confident and funky, with a retro 1960s groove that never feels dated. The melody soars with unmistakable conviction while the harmony section locks into a sassy, supportive pocket that makes singers feel the power of ensemble singing.

Who it's for

Middle school and high school choirs seeking contemporary repertoire with genuine musical substance. Ensembles benefit from the accessible 2-part voicing while the soulful arrangement challenges singers to develop phrasing and stylistic awareness beyond classical contexts.

How to get the most out of it

  • Anchor the rhythmic feel by keeping the backups tight and synchronized. The hip harmonies only land when the ensemble commits to precise articulation and release.
  • Let soloists bring character and attitude to their riff sections. Aretha's music thrives on personality; encourage singers to own their moment rather than blend into anonymity.
  • Shape the melody's arc across section handoffs. Each choir section receives the lead at different moments; prepare singers to maintain vocal energy and phrasing as ownership passes.
  • Match the SoundTrax energy without oversinging. The accompaniment provides plenty of propulsion; singers should feel supported rather than fighting against the track.

How to use it

Program this as a concert closer or a bridge between classical and contemporary repertoire. Its accessibility and energy make it effective for winter/spring concerts, and its cultural weight and musicianship demands position it well alongside jazz or pops-focused concerts.

Skills your students will build

  • R&B phrasing and rhythmic precision in pop/soul idiom
  • Call-and-response singing across choir sections
  • Maintaining groove while singing divided parts
  • Solo performance in a supported ensemble context
  • Stylistic awareness and emotional authenticity

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