Aretha Franklin slowly improving

After a couple of years of ill health, Aretha Franklin is slowly returning to the live performing spotlight.

While she has performed a few songs at benefits, she hasn't done any full concerts and only has three scheduled in the near future.

Up first is a short performance at the National Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony this Friday starting at 4:30. Also appearing are the Avett Brothers, Joshua Bell, Mariah Carey, Renee Fleming, Janelle Monae, Arturo Sandoval and Train. The event can be streamed live at thenationaltree.org.

Then, on December 21, she plays to a hometown crowd at the Sound Board at the Motor City Casino Hotel.

Finally, Franklin returns to New York for two dates at Radio City Music Hall on January 17 and 18. Tickets for those shows go on sale this coming Friday at 11 AM.

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