And we’re back! After spending the last few days getting to the root of some various technological problems, the Northeast Underground is back online. However, I only wish it was under better circumstances.
Sadly, the Underground has returned to note the passing of the legendary American blues singer Etta James. According to a report by Rolling Stone magazine, James succumbed to complications from leukemia Friday after battling serious health problems for years.
Popularly known for her hits “At Last,” “Stormy Weather” and more, the 73-year-old icon was hospitalized in December and spent her last few weeks fighting dementia and kidney failure as well as symptoms of chronic leukemia.
Listen to Beyonce perform “At Last” live during a tribute to Etta James in 2008 here:
Despite a turbulent life that saw her sidetracked by heroin use in the ‘60s and required to make several visits to rehabilitation and psychiatric facilities over the years, James was also in and out of the charts. ABC news reports she was also elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, and received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003.
Speaking with Rolling Stone Magazine in 1997, James looked back on her life and appeared to have no regrets even amidst a rocky past.
“Life’s been rough,” she said. “But life’s been good. If I had to go back and do it all over again, I would live it the exact same way.”
For more information on Etta James and to listen to samples of her music please visit www.legacyrecordings.com/artists/etta-james.
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