The Loss of Etta James

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Long-time blues and R&B singer Etta James passed away at 73 years old of a lengthy battle with leukemia.

After hearing this devastating news, celebrity fans and friends have taken to Twitter to express their condolences.

“Adam Lambert, Mya, Keri Hilson and Russell Brand kept their reaction to a simple ‘RIP,’” reported MTV.com, “while others decided to remember the singer in more personal ways.”

Some of these ways include Black Eyed Peas frontman will.i.am tweeting; “Showing respect appreciation and love for all the wonderful music and joy #ettajames brought to the world…#ettajamesforever.”

In addition to this, the Roots’ ?uestlove wrote on Twitter, “Rip [to] Etta James. I will hold the torch high for The Roots name in your honor.”

Etta James was officially inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, as well as her biggest hit, “At Last” making it into the Grammy Hall of Fame. This is to name a few achievements of the blues and jazz mogul, not to mention her lasting influence on bands and artists ranging from the Rolling Stones to Christina Aguilera.

“She was adored by rock’s elite, including the Rolling Stones, who drafted her in 1979 as the opening act on their U.S. tour,” reported the Los Angeles Times. “Her dusky voice, which could stretch from a sultry whisper to an aching roar, influenced generations of singers who came after, from Tina Turner to Bonnie Raitt to Christina Aguilera.”

Beyonce wrote a statement on her website upon hearing about the death of the epic singer: “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. Playing Etta James [in Cadillac Records] 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.”

Artists like Paramore frontwoman Hayley Williams, King of Leon drummer Nathan Followill and Guns N’ Roses’ Duff McKagen were a just a few big names that tweeted their sorrow for the loss of Etta James.

More stars have been gathering from the likes of “Pretty Little Liars” actress Shay Mitchell, to “Vampire Diaries” actress Candice Accola, to “Glee” diva Amber Riley to express their deep sorrow for the passing of James.

“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,” wrote the “Good Feeling” Rapper Flo Rida, who sampled James’ “Something’s Got a Hold on Me.”

British pop singer Jessie J wrote a moving statement via Twitter as well, saying, “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.”

Big time jazz, blues and R&B singer and soul musician Etta James will most certainly be missed.

via sojones.com