(Photo: Alberto E. Rodriguez/Getty Images)Beyonce Knowles has released an official statement sending her condolences to Etta James‘ family since the announcement of her passing this morning. The two had become acquainted when Knowles played James in her role in the 2008 film ‘Cadillac Records’.
Although James had slammed the singer after President Barack Obama had chosen her to singer Etta’s greatest hit, “At Last”, at the 2009 Inaugural Ball, the star had only kind words to say. She stated,
“I am so fortunate to have met such a queen. Her musical contributions will last a lifetime.”
“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.”
During a concert Etta was quoted as saying, “That woman he had singing for him, singing my song … she’s going to get her ass whipped.”
James’ family later blamed her outburst on her battle with dementia.
