Aretha gets no respect from high temps

ATLANTA, Aug. 23 (UPI) -- Sultry weather in Atlanta is too darned hot for Aretha Franklin, who canceled an outdoor concert during Labor Day weekend because of predicted heat.

In announcing the cancellation of her appearance at Chastain Park Amphitheatre, Franklin's publicist said in a statement the Queen of Soul had difficulty finishing her last two concerts in 80-degree temps, the Atlanta Journal Constitution reported Thursday.

"Hopefully we can reschedule and my sincerest apologies to Chastain Park and the fans in Atlanta," the statement read. "I hope to see you soon."

Camille Love, executive director of the Atlanta's cultural affairs office, said Franklin was offered a chance to perform the same day indoors at the air-conditioned Atlanta Civic Center, but declined that offer.

"We are very disappointed in her decision," the director said, advising people who bought tickets to get refunds.

The Franklin show was to have kicked off the annual Montreux Jazz Festival Labor Day weekend.

Franklin recently canceled an outdoor concert in Detroit because of 90-degree heat.