Obama Flubs Spelling of ‘Respect’ During Aretha Franklin Tribute

During a tribute to Women of Soul at the White House on Thursday, President Barack Obama accidentally misspelled “respect” while introducing the so-called Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin.

“When Aretha first told us what… R-S-P-E-C-T meant to her,” Obama said as the audience roared with laughter. He paused briefly before continuing, “She had no idea it would become a rallying cry for African Americans and women and anyone else who felt marginalized because of what they looked like, who they loved. They wanted some respect.”

The 71-year-old singer later performed twice, CBS reports, singing “I Never Loved a Man (The Way I Love You)” and “Amazing Grace.” The tribute and performances were a part of a star-studded White House Women of Soul concert, honoring an array of singers during Women’s History Month. The event featured performances by Janelle Monae, Patti LaBelle, Ariana Grande, and Melissa Etheridge.

The full concert will air on PBS on April 7.

[CBS News]