If you haven’t heard already, Etta James passed away today, due to complications from leukemia (link to google or CNN). Known of course for her hit, “At Last” (originally written and recorded by the Glenn Miller Orchestra), Ms. James’ body of work includes hearty, painful, sweet, beautiful songs that will last throughout the years. One can only hope that upcoming musicians and music lovers will continue to discover and appreciate her gift, and her memory & influence will not fall to the roadside like so many great soul and blues singers have. Having suffered through a difficult childhood, battling with drugs, illness and obesity, Ms. James never stopped singing. She continued recording and touring throughout her life, and it was only at the November 2011 cd release that she announced she would not record again. When I listen to her, I hear a fierce voice endued with strength and a love of life and of being in love.
Enjoy her performances of "The Very Thought Of You", "Somethin's Got A Hold Of Me" (that Flo Rida sampled in "Good Feeling") and "Take It To The Limit". That's right, a cover of The Eagles - and she NAILS it.
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