Aretha Franklin is undoubtedly the Queen of Soul, a living legend, a true vocal talent. So it only made sense that she was asked her opinion of the current crop of pop girls during her interview with the Wall Street Journal. Her answers for some (Adele, Whitney Houston, Alicia Keys) were positive, fair judgments. Her reaction to others, however -- not so kind.

Aretha made sure to remain diplomatic, never resorting to taking a cheap shot at anyone. When asked her feelings about Adele she called her a "good singer," she referred to Alicia Keys as a "young performer, good writer, producer." The highest praise came for the late, great Whitney Houston, with Aretha saying: "Whitney was a talent. Definitely a talent. She had a gift."

When asked about the current princess of pop Taylor Swift, Aretha chose not to comment on her singing, opting for fashion instead: "OK... great gowns, beautiful gowns." Nicki Minaj received the harshest blow, though, with Aretha simply refusing to answer: "I'm going to pass on that one."

Oh well. You can't win 'em all, we suppose. Check out Aretha's comments for yourself in the video above.

See Yearbook Photos of Taylor Swift, Nicki Minaj + More!

More From 93.1 KISS FM