Stars remember Etta James

The death of legendary singer, Etta James, Friday morning has saddened the hearts of fans, actors and singers alike.

James, 73, passed away early Friday following complications of leukemia. Beyonce notes in her blog, “Etta James was one of the greatest vocalists of our time. I am so fortunate to have met such a queen." She adds, “Her musical contributions will last a lifetime," she gushed. "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 she had guts. She will be missed."

The feeling of loss has spread throughout Hollywood. According to the USA Today stars from Cyndi Lauper to Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin to LeAnn Rimes sent out tweets, messages and heartfelt condolences at the loss of a legend.

Franklin notes, “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!"

James is survived by two sons, Donto and Sametto, who were by her side when she died. Etta is best known for her bluesy, R& B- soul filled songs, “At Last” and “Tell Mama.” Her son, Donto, states that his mother, “Was real, that's for sure. She didn't hold anything back from us. She always told us the truth and how things really were. She didn't sugarcoat anything, and we loved her for that.''