Aretha Franklin to be honored as 2008 MusiCares Person of Year.

Aretha Franklin, a 17-time Grammy winner, will be honored as the 2008 MusiCares Person of the Year today, recognizing not only her music career but her work on behalf of a variety of charities. "As we celebrate the milestones of 50 years for The Recording Academy and the Grammy Awards, it is most fitting that we honor one of the most influential and legendary talents in music, the incomparable Aretha Franklin," said Neil Portnow, president of the MusiCares Foundation and The Recording Academy.

The award presentation comes three days before the 50th annual Grammy Awards ceremony at Staples Center. Franklin will be honored for her artistic achievements -- including hits such as "Respect,' "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman," "Chain Of Fools," "Think,' "Day Dreaming' and "Freeway Of Love' -- as well as her philanthropic efforts on behalf of Save The Children, Easter Seals and various churches and food banks in the Detroit metropolitan area. Franklin is nominated for an 18th Grammy this Sunday. Meanwhile Faith Hill withdrew from the concert tribute due to a bronchial infection.