Jill Scott Says Aretha Franklin Had Her Running A Hot Dog Errand Despite No. 1 Album: ‘I Don’t Even Think She Ate Them’

Jill Scott, Aretha Franklin

Jill Scott Says Aretha Franklin Had Her Running A Hot Dog Errand Despite No. 1 Album: ‘I Don’t Even Think She Ate Them’

A surprising first encounter between two powerhouse vocalists is giving fans a new perspective on respect, hierarchy, and lessons in the music industry.

During a recent appearance on NPR’s “Fresh Air,” Jill Scott shared a memorable moment from when she first met Aretha Franklin—and it didn’t go how she expected.

“Aretha Franklin sent me to get her two hot dogs with cooked onions and mustard,” Scott recalled.

The singer explained that after introducing herself, Franklin simply responded, “‘Go to the corner and get me two hot dogs with cooked onions and mustard.’ And I went.”

Despite already having major success at the time, Scott said, “I think I had the number one album in the country at the time… and I just waited.”

“I don’t even think she ate them,” she added.

Reflecting on the experience, Scott admitted it initially caught her off guard but ultimately became a lesson. “I would, one, say be nicer to people,” she said, laughing. “Two, you gotta earn your stripes.”

Now, she says she understands the deeper meaning behind Franklin’s actions. “Don’t waste it, don’t waste my time, don’t waste your time. It’s too valuable.”

While some critics online disagreed with the moment, Scott has embraced it as an “auntie” lesson—one she now carries into her own career.