Beyonce: ‘Playing Etta James Taught Me So Much About Myself’

Beyonce and other members of the music world are remembering the late singing legend Etta James, who died on Friday at the age of 73.

“This is a huge loss,” Beyonce, who portrayed the singer in 2008’s “Cadillac Records,” said in a statement to Access Hollywood on Friday.

“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,” the new mom’s statement continued.

Adding, “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.”

Other music stars also took time to remember the singer

“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!” Aretha Franklin said in a statement.

“Etta James was a force to be reckoned with. A true gift to music and a woman of great spirit and courage. Her raw tone and the passion she put forth on a record spoke to me at a very young age and has continued to influence and inspire me throughout my career,” Christina Aguilera said in a statement. “She will NEVER be forgotten, her voice will forever live on and she will inspire talent for generations to come.”

“RIP to the late and great Etta James. Your voice and your fight inspired me and many. I love that through recordings, people can live forever,” Pink Tweeted.

Former Destiny’s Child member Kelly Rowland also took to Twitter, writing, “CLASSIC. ONE OF A KIND. PURE SOUL. ETTA JAMES! Thank You for gracing us with your incredible talent & presence!”

Will.i.am remembered the singing great,Tweeting, “Showing respect appreciation and love for all the wonderful music and joy #ettajames brought to the world…#ettajamesforever.”

As previously reported on AccessHollywood.com, the “At Last” singer died on Friday from complications of leukemia. The singer’s husband and sons were at her side.