The term GENRE FOR ARETHA FRANKLIN is SOUL, a four-letter word. Aretha Franklin was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who was known as the 'Queen of SOUL' for her powerful and iconic vocal performances. Her genre was SOUL music, a popular music genre that originated in the United States in the 1950s and 1960s. SOUL music combines elements of African-American gospel music, rhythm and blues, and jazz. It is characterized by its use of call and response vocals, impassioned singing, and a strong backbeat.