A True Diva Send-off: How Fellow Icons Paid Tribute to Aretha Franklin
By Lauren Porter ·
Singers, both young and seasoned, flooded social media on Thursda,y following the news that Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin lost her battle with pancreatic cancer. As tributes came pouring in from all around Hollywood, divas of all ages shared throwback photos, sweet memories, and career highlights dedicated to the songstress, who passed away at age 76. Patti LaBelle called Franklin, who was the first woman inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1987, her “sister in song.” Mariah Carey shared a photo of herself with the late singer, performing together at the VH1 Divas Live tribute in April 1998, calling Franklin her “inspiration, mentor, and friend.” Brandy thanked Franklin “for unchaining every door for so many of us to walk through,” and the boss, Ms. Dianna Ross, offered prayers for the spirit of Franklin.
Beyoncé posted on her website, that Frankin would be “forever in our hearts” just days after she and husband Jay-Z dedicated their Detroit stop of their On The Run II tour to her. Gladys Knight shared a note on Instagram that read in part, “You have touched minds, hearts, and spirits, including my own. Yes, we are sisters and we squabbled as sisters do. But we also loved, supported and laughed together through our lifetime.” Lauryn Hill, who collaborated with the singer on the 1998 classic cut, “A Rose Is Still A Rose,” shared a message via Instagram as well, writing that Franklin’s “contribution to music and to the empowerment and enrichment of our hearts, spirits, and souls is immeasurable.” Here are some of the send-offs that warmed our hearts in the memory of The Queen.

Aretha Franklin. The Queen of Soul. The Icon. The ultimate singers' singer. The greatest singer and musician of my lifetime. The power of your voice in music and in civil rights blew open the door for me and so many others. You were my inspiration, my mentor and my friend. You showed me I could sing the songs I wanted to sing and bring God with me. You've inspired millions everywhere yet never left home, never left church. Today the entire world mourns your home-going and celebrates all the brilliance you left behind. I will forever cherish the moments I spent in your presence. Your indelible impact was earned not only by your incomparable voice but by your bigger than life personality, wit and humor. I say a BIG prayer for you. You will forever have all our RESPECT. Love, Mariah ♥️

A post shared by Mariah Carey (@mariahcarey) on

What a fitting send-off for a true legendary diva.

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