"Queen of Soul" performs on U.S. TV after major surgery

American singer Aretha Franklin sang on "The View" earlier today, Thursday, after her surgery. The performance was the singer's first national TV performance since her illness last year.

Franklin performed two songs; one a new single titled "How Long I've Been Waiting" and her classic hit "Respect."
Franklin who also celebrated her 69th birthday in March, said that she had lost 85 pounds since her illness. She canceled her concert appearances last November on doctor's orders and underwent a major surgery.

Now, Franklin who recovered from the surgery said that she is "feeling wonderful, fabulous." She also said, "I have got more energy. I have changed my diet."

"Aretha: A Woman Falling Out of Love" is Franklin's newest album which will be out on May 3rd. She also has concerts scheduled for the summer

SOURCES: Reuters via Yahoo!UK; Image