ERMA FRANKLIN - DON'T WAIT TOO LONG

Sadly, Erma Franklin never achieved the massive success of her younger sister Aretha, but talent certainly ran HIGH in the Franklin family, as Erma's voice was as husky as Aretha's was brassy.

Erma's biggest hit was the original recording of "Piece Of My Heart", but she also sang backups on many of Aretha's greatest hits.

While still in high school, Erma was offered the first recording contract by Berry Gordy for what was to become the Tamla/ Motown empire. Her father (the reverend C L Franklin) would not allow this, and encouraged Erma to stay in school. Who knows how different fate would have been...

On this track, Erma belts out some serious vocal prowess over some downright frighteningly intense, rhythm and blues.

from 1962...

ERMA FRANKLIN - DON'T WAIT TOO LONG