The whole world has just been hit with news of the passing of the undisputed ‘Queen of Soul’ music Aretha Franklin. The iconic singer died in the early hours of Thursday, August 16 after a long battle with pancreatic cancer.
Frankin got her first stint into gospel music as an 18-year old and in her music career which spanned over six decades, she transcended different music genres — Soul, R&B, pop, jazz, disco and blues.
World Personalities, celebrities, including Donald Trump, Hilary Clinton and John Legend are currently mourning the loss of the music legend and have expressed their condolences on social media.
Here are some of the tweets below:
The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, is dead. She was a great woman, with a wonderful gift from God, her voice. She will be missed!
— Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) August 16, 2018
Mourning the loss today of @ArethaFranklin who shared her spirit and talent with the world. She deserves not only our RESPECT but also our lasting gratitude for opening our eyes, ears and hearts. Rest in eternal peace, my friend.
— Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) August 16, 2018
Salute to the Queen. The greatest vocalist I’ve ever known. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽 #Aretha
— John Legend (@johnlegend) August 16, 2018
The loss of @ArethaFranklin is a blow for everybody who loves real music: Music from the heart, the soul and the Church. Her voice was unique, her piano playing underrated – she was one of my favourite pianists. pic.twitter.com/ug5oZYywAz
— Elton John (@eltonofficial) August 16, 2018
She sang and played magnificently, and we all wept. We were witnessing the greatest soul artist of all time. I adored her and worshipped her talent. God bless her. My condolences to all her family and friends. We shared the same birthday – and that meant so much to me.
— Elton John (@eltonofficial) August 16, 2018
Let’s all take a moment to give thanks for the beautiful life of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of our souls, who inspired us all for many many years. She will be missed but the memory of her greatness as a musician and a fine human being will live with us forever. Love Paul pic.twitter.com/jW4Gpwfdts
— Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) August 16, 2018
The legendary Aretha Franklin dies on the same day Elvis Presley passed. Ms. Franklin gave joy to millions by using her talent to the fullest.
— Bill O’Reilly (@BillOReilly) August 16, 2018
Rest In Peace to one of the greats, Aretha Franklin. For all you’ve done, a grateful world thanks you.
— Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) August 16, 2018
The year was 1967 and a Black woman was calling the shots, dazzling audiences, and boldly commanding RESPECT. Let’s never forget how revolutionary that was.
Rest In Peace Aretha Franklin.
May your obituaries be written by black girls who grew up on soul food and soul music. pic.twitter.com/gojxYnOgrs
— Ayesha K. Faines✒️ (@ayeshakfaines) August 16, 2018