The Scene

Remembering Iconic Blues Singer Etta James

Published on Friday, January 20 2012
Written by Tallie Johnson

Etta James, known for her powerful, emotional ballads died this morning (January 20) from complications from leukemia. She was 73.

Her popular hit “At Last” captured the essence of love as only she could sing. The song was recorded in 1961 but had a resurgence when Beyoncé sang another her version of the song for the movie, Cadillac Records. Beyoncé played James in the movie and also sang James's other hits, including “I’d Rather Go Blind.”

James received four Grammy Awards during her career, including a Lifetime Achievement Award. Her career was often an up and down cycle, due largely to her drug addiction to heroin and cocaine.

The outpouring from people and celebrities on Twitter show the influence the singer had with her music.

 

· “Etta James #restinpeace…At last was and will remain ICONIC” - Tamera Mowry-Housley

· “RIP to the wonderfully soulful Etta James. You will always be in our heart & on our radios. What a voice, a sad loss.” - LeAnn Rimes

· “Rip #EttaJames u r a legend and 1 of my all time favs-thank you for giving us all the gift of song http://t.co/JESpAGLE -what a voice!” - Jessica Alba

· “RIP to the late and great Etta James. Your voice and your fight inspired me and many. I love that through recording, people can live forever” - P!nk

 

Her timeless music will live on, and the emotion she conveyed will continue to resonate with people, especially in times of love and loss.

Rest in Peace, Etta James.

 

- Tallie Johnson, YH Staff