Showing posts with label blues singer etta james dies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label blues singer etta james dies. Show all posts

Friday, January 20, 2012

EtTa JaMeS "tHe DuChEsS oF bLuEs" DiEs Of LeUkEmIa

Etta James had been suffering from dementia, kidney problems and was battling leukemia. In December 2011, her physician announced that her leukemia was terminal, and asked for prayers for the singer. And now Ms. Etta James has passed.

The 73 year old rhythm and blues singer, broke racial boundaries with her extraordinary talent. The color of her skin didn't matter, but it was her raw and passionate singing ability that caught people's attention.

"Etta James was a pioneer. Her ever-changing sound has influenced rock and roll, rhythm and blues, pop, soul and jazz artists, marking her place as one of the most important female artists of our time," said Rock and Roll Hall of Fame President and CEO Terry Stewart.


Beyonce also played the late great star in a film titled, "Cadillac Records" in which she sung Etta James' songs with emotion, power and soul.

James was inducted into the Rock Hall in 1993, captured a Grammy in 2003 for best contemporary blues album for "Let's Roll", one in 2004 for best traditional blues album for "Blues to the Bone", and one for best jazz vocal performance for 1994's "Mystery Lady": Songs of Billie Holiday. 

She was also awarded a special Grammy in 2003 for lifetime achievement, and received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

In memory of the fabulous blues singer, below is a video of her infamous song "At Last."

Rest in peace Ms. Etta James

2012 LA