Erma Franklin

Erma Vernice Franklin (March 13, 1938–September 7, 2002) was an American soul, rhythm and blues, and pop singer. Her best known record is the original version of "Piece of My Heart," later covered in a different arrangement by Janis Joplin.

Her career was hampered by misfortune and by contracts with recording companies who could not find appropriate material for her. In the 1970s she left the music business, apart from engagements with her sister Aretha. She died in 2002 after a long battle with cancer.

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