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Etta James, the soul singer who is most famous for the romantic classic, “At Last,” has died, according to CNN.
James, who was born Jamesetta Hawkins, had her period of greatest success in the early 1960s, when she had a string of hits including “I’d Rather Go Blind” and “Don’t Tell Mama.”
The singer was hospitalized in December for breathing problems, shortly after news of her terminal battle with leukemia became public. Her live-in doctor called on fans to pray for the ailing star. “I am Southern and Christian and would just ask for the prayers of her fans and friends,” the physician told a local paper.
She was removed from her respirator in late December, when her doctors said her condition had stabilized, and released from the hospital earlier this month.
The news comes hours after the passing of Johnny Otis, a musician and talent scout who was a major player in early rhythm and blues, and whom James called her “guru.”
James was portrayed by Beyonce Knowles in 2008’s “Cadillac Records.”
