The death of the legendary vocalist Etta James on Friday afternoon inspired an outpouring of response from artists of many genres, but none more than Beyonce, who portrayed the late singer in the 2008 film Cadillac Records, and serenaded President and Mrs. Obama with James' signature song "At Last" during the Inaugural Ball. In a statement on her official website, Beyonce said, "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."
Beyonce continued, "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."Here's a sampling of what a few other artists had to say:
Rihanna: #DearEtta may you rest in peace.
Mariah Carey: Rest in peace to one of the world's most influential singers Etta James, you will be missed.
Pink: RIP to the late and great Etta James. Your voice and your fight inspired me and many. I love that through recordings, people can live forever
Jordin Sparks: RIP Etta James. <3
Rob Thomas: song of the day: AT LAST - ETTA JAMES (R.I.P.)
Will.i.am: Showing respect appreciation and love for all the wonderful music and joy #ettajames brought to the world...#ettajamesforever
Jessie J: Just been told the legend that is Etta James has passed. Thank you for your voice your dedication to us and your gift. Your voice is timeless and will forever live on. I will always look to you for inspiration. R.I.P <3
Chrisina Perri: etta james, i hope youre resting your sweet singing soul in peace. thank you for everything you gave us.
American Idol season 5 champ Taylor Hicks: RIP Etta James. What a talent. She was a true non conformist in music and that's what legends are made of. #tellmama
Josh Kracik (X Factor finalist who sang "At Last" on the show): Today, sadly, we lost Ms. Etta James, a blues and R&B legend who was passionately driven by her music.
Pia Toscano (American Idol season 10 finalist): Fly with the angels Etta James...Thank you for being such an inspiration in my life... </3
In addition, Adam Levine and Bruno Mars noted James' death by retweeting others' messages about her. And Flo Rida tweeted, "I’m deeply saddened by the passing of the Great Etta James and I will be forever grateful for the gift she blessed me with." He was referring to the fact that his current hit, "Good Feeling," contains a vocal sample of James' hit "Something's Got a Hold on Me."
Here you have one of her most famous songs, At last.
