Carolyn Franklin(1944-1988)

Carolyn Franklin was born in Memphis, Tennessee in 1944. Her father was the famous Rev. C. L. Franklin. She had two brothers, Cecil and Vaughan, and two sisters, Emma and Aretha. Carolyn recorded for RCA Victor Records and wrote songs for both Erma Franklin ("Don't Catch The Dog's Bone") and Aretha Franklin ("Ain't No Way" "Angel"). Erma recorded the original version of the song, "Piece of My Heart", which was later covered by Janis Joplin.

Carolyn and Erma appeared with Aretha many times, in concert as solo artists and as background singers when they were available. Both of Aretha's sisters had their own careers and traveled extensively.