Otis Redding tells a funny story about the recording sessions that resulted in one of Aretha Franklin's most iconic hits, "Respect." Redding, who wrote the tune, says he originally titled it "Approbation."

"It means the same thing," Redding laughed, "but it took Aretha to point out how awkwardly 'approbation' fit in the coda of the song, where she spells out the word. There we were, recording, and Aretha was screaming at top speed, trying to get it all out: A-P-P-R-O-B-A-T-I-O-N, babyyy!"

When Franklin suggested an alternative - "respect" - rock and soul history was made.

This past year, after bouts of ill health, Franklin, who's won 18 Grammy awards, released the first album on her own label. Called "A Woman Falling Out of Love," the CD was a welcome turn of events despite overproduction and uneven material.

Still, tunes like "How Long I've Waited" and a cover of B.B. King's "Sweet Sixteen" are indicative that she's on her way back - and a show Friday in the MGM Grand Theater at Foxwoods is a terrific opportunity to see a musical giant.

- RICK KOSTER

Aretha Franklin, 8 p.m. Friday, MGM Grand Theater at Foxwoods; $50, $70; 1-866-646-0609.