Legendary singer Etta James’ battle with terminal leukemia and dementia has ended. According to James’ long-time friend and manager, Lupe De Leon, the 73-year-old has died.
“This is a tremendous loss for the family, her friends and fans around the world,” De Leon told CNN. “She was a true original who could sing it all — her music defied category.
She adds: “I worked with Etta for over 30 years. She was my friend and I will miss her always.”
James died at a hospital in Riverside, California just weeks after being released from a short stay due to breathing issues.
The “At Last” singer, who would have turned 74 on Wednesday, won six Grammys and was voted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Over a span of 50 years, Etta James accumulated six Grammy Awards, a host of top 10 hits including “The Wallflower (Roll With Me, Henry),” “All I Could Do Was Cry,” “Trust In Me,” “Loving You More Everyday” and “Pushover,’ and host of other accolades.
In 2008, Beyonce portrayed James on the “Big Screen” in Cadillac Records, a film chronicling the rise of Chess Records and its recording artists.
James has inspired a number of artists over the years, including Beyonce and Christina Aguilera.
“The Dreamer,” her final album, was released in November.
She leaves behind husband of 41 years, Artis Mills, and sons, Donto and Sametto James.
R.I.P. to a legend!
It’s a sad day in music history. Legendary singer Etta James has passed away at the age of 73. The soulful blues-rock star was best known for her iconic song, “At Last,” and will be remembered as one of the most influential musicians of all time.
James’ career spanned more than five decades, during which she earned four Grammy Awards, 17 Blues Music Awards and was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993. Her unique voice captivated audiences around the world with its power and emotion; her songs were anthems to generations of fans everywhere.
Her death marks a major loss in music culture, but luckily, we can still listen to Etta James’ timeless classics that have touched so many hearts over the years. Here is look back on her life and legacy as one of America’s greatest singers ever.
Biography And Musical Career
Etta James, one of the most iconic singers in modern music history, died on January 20th at 73 years old. She is remembered for her stunning vocal range and soulful style that earned her numerous awards over the course of her career. Her legacy will remain as a major influence to many musicians today.
Born Jamesetta Hawkins on January 25th 1938 in Los Angeles California, Etta was raised by foster parents in San Francisco. At just five-years-old she began singing gospel with The Echoes Of Eden Choir, eventually joining a doo-wop group called The Creolettes who later signed with Chess Records. It was under this label that Etta released her first single “The Wallflower” (Roll With Me Henry) which gained moderate success and established her name within the R&B scene. From then on she went on to release several hit singles such as “Something’s Got A Hold On Me” and “At Last”; songs that would solidify her place amongst other legendary soul singers like Aretha Franklin and Sam Cooke.
Throughout her career she enjoyed immense critical and commercial acclaim while also being inducted into both the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame and Blues Hall Of Fame. In 2012, President Obama awarded Etta the prestigious National Medal Of Arts for her contributions to American culture through songwriting and performance. Even after facing an array of personal issues including substance abuse problems, Etta kept performing until recent months prior to passing away at Riverside Community Hospital due to complications from leukemia.
Etta’s impact will leave an everlasting mark not only within popular music but throughout all forms of artistry around the world.
Legacy Of The Iconic Artist
Etta James’ influence on the music industry was immense. Her unique mix of soul, blues and gospel styles gave her a distinct sound that inspired generations of artists from all genres. She broke through racial boundaries in the 1960s with hits like “Tell Mama” and “I’d Rather Go Blind” which crossed over to pop audiences, paving the way for other African-American performers to do so as well. As one of the most recognizable voices in popular music, Etta has been mentioned or sampled by numerous contemporary musicians including Beyonce, Christina Aguilera, Alicia Keys and more.
The legacy of this legendary singer will remain forever intertwined with American culture. From her humble beginnings singing gospel music as a young girl to being awarded a National Medal Of Arts at 74 years old; an impressive feat made possible due to her unwavering dedication and passion for creating timeless artistry throughout her career. Even after death she continues to be celebrated around the world, with many honoring both her life and work through special tributes such as album reissues or concerts featuring fellow stars paying homage to Etta’s indelible mark within modern day music history.
It is no exaggeration to say that Etta James left behind a lasting impression not only on those who had the privilege of working alongside her but also through each person whose lives have ever been touched by her incomparable talent.
Conclusion
I. Summary of James’ Career
Etta James was an iconic singer and songwriter who left her mark on the music industry with her unique style and powerful voice. She achieved success early in her career, beginning with her first hit single “At Last.” Throughout her decades-long career, she earned numerous awards for her work, including six Grammy Awards and induction into both the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Blues Hall of Fame.
II. Impact of Her Music
James’ influence extended beyond the blues genre; artists from all walks of life have covered or been inspired by her songs. From Beyoncé to Aretha Franklin, Etta’s legacy has touched many lives across generations. Even after her death, she will continue to be remembered as a pioneer in soulful music that moved millions around the world.
III. Legacy Lives On
Though we mourn the loss of this incredible performer, it is clear that Etta James will forever remain one of history’s greatest singers. Her timeless classics are sure to live on through future generations and carry out its spirit wherever they may go. We pay tribute to the legend whose passion for music will never be forgotten.
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