As the world mourns the loss of musical legend and activist Aretha Franklin, it’s only natural to revisit her impressive discography that’s older than some people. Franklin’s career, which took off in the sixties spans all the way to present day. The 76-year-old singer-songwriter recorded 42 studio albums, six live albums, and released more than 100 singles.
However, it should also be noted that Franklin also lent her voice to iconic American institutions, including A Different World. Created by Bill Cosby, for six seasons viewers were transported to fictitious Hillman University. The historically black college showcased life for Hillman students as well as the ups and downs of young adulthood. Yet before the 30-minute sitcom aired, fans heard Franklin, an 18-time Grammy award winner’s voice wail as she sang the iconic theme song.
Franklin not only sang the theme song for The Cosby Show spinoff but her ex-husband Glynn Turman, who played retired professor and Army Colonel Bradford Taylor on the show.
Check out the lyrics below.
I know my parents love me, Stand behind me come what may.
I know now that I’m ready,
Because I finally heard them say
It’s a different world than where you come from.
Here’s a chance to make it,
If we focus on our goals.
If you dish it we can take it,
Just remember you’ve been told
It’s a different world,
It’s a different world,
Then where you come from
Then where you come from
