(January 20, 2012) Etta James, a seminal singer who combined elements of blues, rock, soul, gospel and jazz into a brilliant career, has died at at 73 of kidney failure after a long illness. With dozens of hits beginning with the 1950’s James became one of the most revered vocalists of her generation. Her signature song, “At Last,” remains a pop and jazz staple to this day.
During her career James received awards that demonstrated the breadth of her impact, including six Grammys, 17 Blues Music Awards and inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, the Blues Hall of Fame and the Grammy Hall of Fame.
James will remain an essential figure in 20th century popular music and will be missed.
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