Tributes from across the music world have poured in for Aretha Franklin, known as the Queen of Soul, who has died at the age of 76.
Sir Elton John was amongst the musical luminaries who paid tribute to Franklin, writing in an Instagram post: “The loss of Aretha Franklin is a blow for everybody who loves real music. Music from the heart, the soul and the church. Her voice was unique, her piano playing underrated ... I adored her and worshipped her talent. God bless her. My condolences to all her family and friends.”
“I’m sitting in prayer for the wonderful golden spirit Aretha Franklin,” Diana Ross posted on Twitter, white Carole King wrote: “What a life. What a legacy! So much love, respect and gratitude.”
The legendary singer was first reported to be “gravely ill” in a Detroit hospice by news anchor and close friend Evrod Cassimy. Franklin, who was set to retire from live music in February 2019, last performed live last November at Sir Elton’s annual Aids Foundation gala.
She confirmed her retirement to Cassimy while simultaneously announcing plans to work on a new record with Stevie Wonder.
She cancelled her tour dates in March after her doctor told her to “rest completely” for at least two months. One of the shows would have marked the “Respect” singer’s 76th birthday.
Annie Lennox also paid tribute to Franklin on Instagram, writing: “She has reigned supreme. and will always be held in the highest firmament of stars as the most exceptional vocalist, performer and recording artist the world has ever been privileged to witness. Superlatives are often used to describe astonishing artists, but in my view even superlatives seem insufficient.”
Debbie Sledge, of Sister Sledge, posted on the vocal group’s Twitter account: “We all mourn the passing of a QUEEN #arethafranklin that blessed the world and us personally for a shining example of grace, class, beauty and strength, and sheer talent.”
Born in 1942, Franklin went on to earn the title ‘The Queen of Soul’ for her services to music since the late 1960s. Having signed to Atlantic Records in 1967, she achieved huge success with songs including “Spanish Harlem”, “I Say a Little Prayer” and “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman.”
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