Aretha Franklin gives free Coney Island concert

CONEY ISLAND (WABC) -- Aretha Franklin performed a free concert on Coney Island Thursday night.

"The Queen of Soul" was in the County of Kings.

"I am so, so, so excited!" fan Diana Simmons said.

It was perfect: a cool night, thumping music and the diva of all divas.

"Hello Brooklyn! Your love is lifting me higher," Aretha Franklin sang.

Jacob Grumfeld, Robert Goldstein and Indy Bell were first in line, which earned them a spot front and center.

"I've been standing in line for six hours," Goldstein said.

"We've been here since 8 o'clock in the morning for Aretha Franklin in Brooklyn!" Bell said.

"I made it! 4:30 in the morning, I just can't wait to see her," Grumfeld added.

Joining the thousands of fans was Borough President Marty Markowitz, who was shaking his money maker, and Congressman Charles Rangel, who was clapping to the beat.

Aretha sang all her hits while fans mouthed each and every word.

The venue was at capacity, so fans sat on the boardwalk hoping to get a glimpse, but were thankful to hear a legend.

"I don't mind [being far away]," fan Lorna Jordan said. "As long as I know I'm in her company, I don't mind."

Get more New York News »

new york city, brooklyn, coney island, new york news, carolina leid

• Comment Now
• Email
• Print
• Report a typo
•