(Photo: WENN)

Aretha Franklin pulling out of various public appearances is a sign of improving health, the 71-year-old soul singer revealed to the Associated Press. In a phone call with AP Tuesday (Aug. 22), Franklin said she's on the mend and working on an new album. "My treatments are going very well," she said. "My last CAT scan, my doctor at the CAT scan and everyone who sees this says that this is miraculous, absolutely miraculous." 

The Queen of Soul has never directly listed the source of her medical troubles, telling AP that she is "not one to go into my personal health things." She did, however, categorize the ailment as being common among women, and was understandably worried about cutting shows. "Anytime you have cancellations you should be concerned," Franklin explained. "But all prayer is good, and keep me in your prayers until I'm 100 percent, not 85, and back on stage."

Of her new album, Franklin said she "can't wait" for the project. "They're working on the tracks now," she said.

Missing events, like the upcoming Major League Baseball luncheon where she will be honored this weekend, hasn't been easy, but is necessary for her recovery because, "Nothing is more important than my health," as she pointed out.

After dropping over 80 pounds, Franklin continues to monitor her diet and has kept her blood pressure down. The Detroit legend is particularly disappointed to be skipping the U.S. Open tennis championship in New York City next week. "I had really got this hot, hot, hot three-piece Escada short set to wear ... with some fine platforms but doggone it, I'm just not up to traveling quite as far as New York," she said.

Franklin is still on board to hit Radio City Music Hall next February, and could get to the Big Apple a little ahead of schedule. "I could very well still get there this year," she teased.  

BET.com is your #1 source for Black celebrity news, photos, exclusive videos and all the latest in the world of hip hop and R&B music.

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.