Soul legend Etta James has died at the age of 73 after suffering from leukaemia and dementia for the last few years.
James was best known for her distinctive, dynamic and gravelly vocals that drew fans to her songs I’d Rather Go Blind, In The Basement, Tell Mama, I Just Want To Make Love To You and one of the most successful soul ballads of all time, At Last.
James was born Jamesetta Hawkins on January 25, 1938 in Los Angeles, CA. Her first group were the Creolettes, a doo-wop inspired girl group with each member barely in their teens during the inception.
This group were quickly discovered by Johnny Otis (who also died this week) who suggested Jamesetta change her name to Etta James and the band change their name to The Peaches.
James’ biggest success came when she moved to Chess Records imprint Argo (and later with Cadet). Here, under the guidance of label boss Leonard Chess, James would bring in a new era for the label that had previously been relying on blues men for hits. James led the era of the soul sister from the moment her debut album At Last! was released in 1960.
Her time at this label was dramatised in the film Cadillac Records, which starred Beyonce as James. The feisty original took exception to Beyonce’s performance and her portrayal in the film due to drug references and detailing her affair with Leonard Chess.
The 70s were not kind to the singer. She spent much of her time in and out of rehab due to a heroin addition, although she did still manage to release some records, including Etta Is Betta Than Evvah! which saw her experiment with synthesisers and funk.
James died on January 20, 2012. She would have turned 74 on January 25.
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Below are some fine moments from Etta’s career:
Etta James and The Peaches – Good Rockin’ Daddy:
Etta James and Dr. John – I’d Rather Go Blind (WARNING: This is pretty much the greatest live performance on the internet.):
Etta James – I Just Want To Make Love To You:
Etta James – You Can Leave Your Hat On:
Etta James – At Last:
