Over the weekend, the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, celebrated her 70th birthday. The party, which included less than 100 people, was held at NYC’s The Helmsley Park Lane Hotel, with guests like Al Sharpton, Diane Sawyer, Clive Davis, Michael Eric Dyson and BET’s Debra Lee. Franklin’s long-time boyfriend/ex-fiance, Willie Wilkerson attended as well. Party guests were entertained by a set from a jazz combo featuring pianist Kris Bowers.

P.S. During her shin-dig, Franklin did an interview and confirmed that she would be reunited with Clive Davis, who she worked with in the 80′s, on her new album.  She confirmed:

“I have re-signed with Clive Davis, so I’m recording with Clive again…”

[Associated Press]