Etta James Passes Away at 73, Leaving Musical Legacy Behind

The world lost a tremendously talented singer today as Etta James passed away at the age of 73. The legendary blues singer had been battling leukemia for some time, and was recently hospitalized with breathing difficulties, before succumbing to the disease this morning.

James is probably best known for her soulful ballad "At Last" and the emotionally charged "I'd Rather Go Blind." She was also known for her fiery personality and toughness: she notoriously went after Beyoncé for singing "At Last" at President Obama's inaugural ball, saying, "I'll tell you, that woman... she gonna get her ass whipped. The great Beyoncé... Don't be singing my song, that I been singing forever."

Upon hearing of James' passing, Beyoncé (who also played James in the movie "Cadillac Records") put a note on her website that reads:

"This is a huge loss. 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. 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."

Another legend, Aretha Franklin, had this to say: "Etta James was one of the great soul singers of our generation. An American original! I loved 'Pushover,' 'At Last' and almost any and everything she recorded!!! When Etta SUNG, you heard it!"

Listen to Etta James singing "At Last" below: