Etta James passed away on Friday, January 20, 2012, in Riverside, California. The iconic soul singer died due to complications of leukemia, according to her manager, Lupe De Leon. She was diagnosed in 2010, also suffering from hepatitis C and dementia.
Beyonce said on her site “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…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.”
Next Wednesday is the singer’s 74th birthday.
Listen to James’ classic, “At Last,” below.
David Woodson
