Erma Vernice Franklin

About

Gospel singer and sister of Aretha Franklin who gained fame for her soul hit "Piece of My Heart." She passed away in 2002 at the age of 64.

Before Fame

She studied Business at Clark Atlanta University.

Trivia

She performed at Nelson Mandela's 1990 rally at Tiger Stadium in Detroit, Michigan.

Family Life

Her mother was named Barbara and her father was named Franklin. Her father was pastor of the New Bethel Baptist Church in Detroit, Michigan. Her sisters Aretha and Carolyn were both successful singers.

Associated With

Janis Joplin covered her song "Piece of My Heart" in 1968.