Etta James Revered By Beyonce, Russell Simmons and Music Community
Etta James died on Friday, causing many in the music industry to pay homage to the late singer.
Beyonce Knowles, award-winning singer who portrayed James in the 2008 feature film Cadillac Records, expressed sorrow on her website when news of James' death broke.
"This is a huge loss. Etta James was one of the greatest vocalists of our time," Knowles wrote. "I am so fortunate to have met such a queen. Her musical contributions will last a lifetime."
Knowles recalled playing the singer in Cadillac Records, and how she was personally impacted by the singer.
"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," Knowles said.
"Her deeply emotional way of delivering a song told her story with no filter. She was fearless, and had guts. She will be missed," she added.
James' death came about after complications with leukemia, which she was diagnosed with in 2010, according to CNN. Black Eye Peas' frontman, Will.I.Am, also spoke about the mark James made on the world via Twitter.
"Showing respect appreciation and love for all the wonderful music and joy #ettajames brought to the world," Will.I.Am tweeted.
Russell Simmons, hip-hop music mogul, took a spiritual approach to honoring James on Twitter.
"Our contributions to this earth are never erased ... the spirit lives on," Simmons tweeted. "RIP Etta James."
Various other hip-hop musicians also spoke up about James' impact, including MC Hammer.
"When she sang she had the Gift to become 'The Song',the pain, the love, the Glory," Hammer tweeted.
Rapper Snoop Dogg chose to place a photograph in his Instagram account, while writing "R.I.P. Etta James."
Kelly Rowland, previously a member of the Destiny's Child singing group with Beyonce, also took to Twitter to thank James for her influence.
"Classic. One of a kind. Pure Soul," Rowland tweeted. "Etta James! Thank You for gracing us with your incredible talent and presence!"
