Beyoncé leads tributes to the late Etta James

By Lisa Potter  on Monday 23 January 2012

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Beyoncé has led tributes to the legendary Etta James, who died on Friday morning aged 73 due to complications from leukemia.

She has been keeping a low profile since giving birth to daughter Blue Ivy, but Beyoncé has taken to her website to voice her condolences for friend and inspiration, Etta James.

'This is a huge loss. Etta James was one of the greatest vocalists of our time,' said Beyoncé, who played James in the movie Cadillac Records

'I am so fortunate to have met such a queen. Her musical contributions will last a lifetime.'

Speaking of her role in the 2008 film, she adds: '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. 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.

PICS: BEYONCE STYLE HIGHS AND LOWS

Aretha Franklin also praised the iconic singer, telling People magazine: 'Etta James was one of the great soul singers of our generation. An American original! I loved 'Pushover,' 'At Last' and almost any and everything she recorded. When Etta SUNG, you heard it!'

Singer Pink also paid her respects, telling her Twitter followers: 'RIP to the late and great Etta James. Your voice and your fight inspired me and many. I love that through recordings, people can live forever.'

WATCH: Beyoncé as Etta James here...


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