Beyonce: 'Etta James' death is a huge loss'
Pop superstar Beyonce has hailed late soul legend Etta James as "one of the greatest vocalists of our time" following her tragic death on Friday (20Jan12).
James died just five days before her 74th birthday after suffering complications from leukemia.
A host of celebrities took to Twitter.com to pay tribute to the
icon as soon as the sad news broke and the messages of condolence
are continuing to pour in.
Beyonce has now issued a statement in memory of James, who she
portrayed in the 2008 film Cadillac Records. The Crazy In Love
beauty also had the honor of singing a cover of James' classic
ballad At Last at President Barack Obama's inauguration in January,
2009.
In a message on her website, Beyonce says: "This is a huge loss.
Etta James was one of the greatest vocalists of our time. I am so
fortunate to have met such a queen. Her musical contributions will
last a lifetime. Playing Etta James taught me so much about myself,
and singing her music inspired me to be a stronger artist. When she
effortlessly opened her mouth, you could hear her pain and triumph.
Her deeply emotional way of delivering a song told her story with
no filter. She was fearless, and had guts. She will be missed."
Another soul superstar, Chaka Khan, has also expressed her sadness
at James' passing.
A post on Twitter.com reads, "Rest in peace Etta James. My thoughts
and prayers are with you and your family."
Mariah Carey adds, "Rest in peace to one of the world's most
influential singers Etta James, you will be missed", while rocker
Slash writes, "Deeply saddened by the loss of Etta James, a true
legend in our time. RIP."
Cyndi Lauper, Pink, will.i.am, LeAnn Rimes and Jordin Sparks have
also paid tribute to the late legend.