Rockers Honor to Aretha Franklin

2018-08-17

Story by Cat Badra

Aretha Franklin has passed away in her hometown of Detroit at the age of 76

The Queen of Soul has left us. Aretha Franklin passed away Thursday (Aug. 16) at her home in Detroit after a battle with pancreatic cancer. She was 76. Musicians from around the world are paying respect to Franklin — who really was the voice of Detroit — on social media, including rock musicians. View a sampling of tributes to Franklin below.

“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,” said Paul McCartney. “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”

“Very sad to hear the news about Aretha, she was so inspiring and wherever you were she always brought you to church,” The Rolling Stones said.

“So sad,” Gene Simmons of KISS said. “Aretha Franklin, the queen of soul has passed away. Our prayers and condolences to family, friends and fans.”

“Undoubtedly one of the greatest of ALL time, RIP #ArethaFranklin,” said Slash of Guns N’ Roses.

“Aretha was the greatest of all time,” said Win Butler of Arcade Fire. “Played 3 songs in a row at my set in Berlin night before last…her music will live forever.”

“The loss of @ArethaFranklin is a blow for everybody who loves real music: Music from the heart, the soul and the Church,” said Elton John. “Her voice was unique, her piano playing underrated – she was one of my favourite pianists.”

“The Queen of Soul has left this earth to sit on her throne in heaven,” said Lenny Kravitz. “How blessed we were to hear the best that God had to offer in her voice. RESPECT!”

“God bless Aretha Franklin the queen of soul and peace and love to her family,” said Ringo Starr of The Beatles.

Anne Erickson
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