Aretha releases first Christmas album

ANN ARBOR, Mich., Oct. 16 (UPI) -- U.S. queen of soul music Aretha Franklin has released her first Christmas album, "This Christmas Aretha," Borders announced.

The CD went on sale Tuesday exclusively at Borders, Waldenbooks and Borders.com.

"Released through DMI Music, 'This Christmas Aretha,' shimmers and sparkles as the acclaimed artist puts her definitive stamp on a mix of 11 traditional and contemporary classics associated with the holiday season," the book and music-selling chain said in a release. "Aretha Franklin herself produced three tracks and arranged and added her inimitable touch as a pianist to two tracks -- 'Silent Night' and '14 Angels.' Award-winning producer Tena Clark masterminded seven cuts."

Tracks on the CD include "Angels We Have Heard on High," "This Christmas," "My Grown-Up Christmas List," "The Lord Will Make A Way," "Ave Maria," "Christmas Ain't Christmas (Without The One You Love,)" "One Night With The King," "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing" and "'Twas The Night Before Christmas."

"I heard many of them growing up and I am delighted to be recording them," Franklin said in a statement.