(Image source: Ebony)
BY BRICE SANDER
Soul legend Etta James was laid to rest Saturday. HLN takes us inside the star-studded ceremony.
“The singer died January 20 from complications of leukemia. Reverend Al Sharpton presided over the funeral in California. He even read a note from President Obama. It said that Etta James’ talent transcended genres.”
USA Today echoes that sentiment calling the funeral ...
“...a rousing goodbye to an artist remembered for her authentic singing style and her triumph against all odds to break down cultural, racial and musical barriers.”
The memorial included performances from Stevie Wonder...
“And I’ll be your shelter in the rain.”
...and Christina Aguilera with James’ signature song ‘At Last.’
“And life is like a song...”
MTV UK calls Aguilera’s performance “powerful,” a moving tribute to the late singer.
“[She] told the assembled crowd that she had been inspired by James and that she included the song in every concert … ‘It's very emotional for me to sing today, as this has meant so much to me.’”
The performances followed words from James’ family and U.S. congresswoman Maxine Waters, who noted what she hopes will be the singer’s lasting legacy.
“‘Etta has always been one of my artistic heroines,’ Waters said. ‘Think about the strength of a woman who beat her addictions … Etta is special to me because she represents the life, the trials and the tribulations of a lot of black women all over this world ... She was a survivor, and I love her for that.’”
The memorial took place only a few miles from the church where James first started singing. She leaves behind two sons, her husband of 42 years and a legion of loyal fans.
