It’s safe to say Beyonce wasn’t exactly Etta James’ favorite celebrity. Nevertheless, the 30 year-old singer has nothing but praise and admiration for her. The 73 year-old musical legend passed away on January 20th, just a little over a week after Beyonce gave birth to her first child.

Most young people know who Etta James is because Beyonce portrayed her in the 2008 film Cadillac Records, much to Etta’s dismay. Once she learned of the music icon’s death, Beyonce took to her website to issue a statement and honor the singer’s life.

“This is a huge loss,” Beyonce expressed. “Etta James was one of the greatest vocalists of our time. 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.”

Beyonce went on to explain what made Etta James’ music so special.

“When she effortlessly opened her mouth, you could hear her pain and triumph,” she said. “Her deeply emotional way of delivering a song told her story with no filter. She was fearless, and had guts. She will be missed.”

However, Etta James wasn’t a fan of Beyonce. She was angered that President Obama chose the “Diva” singer to sing “At Last” at his 2009 presidential inauguration and threatened to whip Beyonce’s ass.

Before she died last weekend, Etta James climbed back on the Billboard charts. Learn about the new hit song and see a half dozen of her classics, including “At Last”.

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