The legendary Queen of Soul has died on 16 August at the age of 76 after battling advanced pancreatic cancer of the neuroendocrine type.
Known as one of the most revered singers of all time, musicians such as Carole King, Paul McCartney and Elton John are mourning the loss of Aretha today and remembering her most iconic singles, including her hit duet with George.
The loss of @ArethaFranklin is a blow for everybody who loves real music: Music from the heart, the soul and the Church. Her voice was unique, her piano playing underrated – she was one of my favourite pianists. pic.twitter.com/ug5oZYywAz
— Elton John (@eltonofficial) August 16, 2018
Aretha Franklin’s career spanned six decades but the late singer reportedly only sang her most famous track Respect 77 times throughout her career. The karaoke classic tops the list of the singer’s most performed tracks according to setlist.fm, which is a free wiki-like service that collects and shares artist setlists. Following Respect is the Aretha original Chain Of Fools, and then Freeway Of Love and the gorgeous Natural Women, which was written by folk star Carole King.
Let’s all take a moment to give thanks for the beautiful life of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of our souls, who inspired us all for many many years. She will be missed but the memory of her greatness as a musician and a fine human being will live with us forever. Love Paul pic.twitter.com/jW4Gpwfdts
— Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) August 16, 2018
Tributes have poured in for the late Aretha Franklin, after the Queen of Soul passed away on Thursday morning local time. ‘What a life. What a legacy! So much love, respect and gratitude,’ shared songwriter King. ‘It’s difficult to conceive of a world without her,’ added Barbara Streisand. ‘Not only was she a uniquely brilliant singer but her commitment to civil rights made an indelible impact on the world,’ she continued.
Aretha.
— shonda rhimes (@shondarhimes) August 16, 2018
The Detroit native had been ‘gravely ill’ for several days, and died surrounded by friends and family, who asked for prayers. Aretha’s family has spoken out (Picture: Paul Natkin/Getty Images) Today, her publicist confirmed that the legend died at her home in Detroit on Thursday. A statement read: ‘Franklin’s official cause of death was due to advance pancreatic cancer of the neuroendocrine type, which was confirmed by Franklin’s oncologist, Dr. Philip Phillips of Karmanos Cancer Institute.’
The family added: ‘In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our heart. We have lost the matriarch and rock of our family. The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins knew no bounds. ‘We have been deeply touched by the incredible outpouring of love and support we have received from close friends, supporters and fans all around the world. Thank you for your compassion and prayers.
‘We have felt your love for Aretha and it brings us comfort to know that her legacy will live on. As we grieve, we ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.’ Franklin – who was dubbed The Queen of Soul – was best known for her hit songs Respect (You Make Me Feel) A Natural Woman, Think and Spanish Harlem.