Soul queen, Adele has paid tribute to legendary blues singer Etta James who died on Friday 20th January at Riverside Community Hospital from complications of leukaemia, with her husband and sons at her side. She was 73 years old.

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. From Janis Joplin to Joss Stone, an incredible number of performers owe their debts to her. There is no mistaking the voice of Etta James, and it will live forever.

Beyonce Knowles, who played the role of a young Etta James in the 2008 movie ‘Cadillac Records‘, hailed the 73-year-old as ““one of the greatest vocalists of our time”.

“This is a huge loss,” Beyonce said. “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.”

Adele dedicated a blog post to her, which you can read here

We’ll leave the lady to sing you out. RIP Etta James.