American singer and songwriter, Aretha Franklin passed on today at the age of 76 in her Detroit home after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
The news was confirmed by her publicist in a statement:
“Franklin’s official cause of death was due to advanced pancreatic cancer of the neuroendocrine type, which was confirmed by Franklin’s oncologist, Dr. Philip Phillips of Karmanos Cancer Institute.
In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our heart. We have lost the matriarch and rock of our family. The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins knew no bounds.
We have been deeply touched by the incredible outpouring of love and support we have received from close friends, supporters and fans all around the world. Thank you for your compassion and prayers. We have felt your love for Aretha and it brings us comfort to know that her legacy will live on. As we grieve, we ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.”
Since news of her passing, several celebrities, politicians and her colleagues have taken to social media to pay their tributes to the legend.
See some of the tributes below:
Tim Cook, Chief Executive Officer of Apple
“We mourn the passing of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul. Her voice will keep lifting us, through the music she gave the world. Our thoughts are with her family, her loved ones and fans everywhere. Take her hand, precious Lord, and lead her home.
— Tim Cook (@tim_cook) August 16, 2018
Shaun King, American Writer
“Our legends are passing away. Aretha Franklin was bold and brilliant her entire career. She wasn’t held up as an activist, but she was. She not only supported the Civil Rights Movement, but the Black Panthers and other activists throughout the generations.
She will be missed. pic.twitter.com/yKUykzmmGj
— Shaun King (@shaunking) August 16, 2018
John Legend, American Singer
“Salute to the Queen. The greatest vocalist I’ve ever known. ?????????? #Aretha”
— John Legend (@johnlegend) August 16, 2018
Annie Lennox, Scottish Singer
“As the One and Only ‘ Queen of Soul ‘ Aretha Franklin was simply peerless. She has reigned supreme, and will always be held in the highest firmament of stars as the most exceptional vocalist, performer and recording artist the world has ever been privileged to witness (1/3)”
— Annie Lennox (@AnnieLennox) August 16, 2018
Zara Larsson, Swedish singer
“Aretha Franklin was the only thing I wanted to listen to in the car growing up. I always asked my mom to put her on. Rest In Peace, Queen if soul. An irreplaceable legend!
— Zara Larsson
Hillary Clinton, American Politician
“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
Diana Ross, American Singer
“I’m sitting in prayer for the wonderful golden spirit Aretha Franklin.”
— Ms. Ross (@DianaRoss) August 16, 2018