Etta James Dead At 73
Singer Etta James has lost her lengthy battle with leukemia. She was 73.
James was known for her strong, rich voice and such classic songs as “Somethings Go a Hold on Me,” “The Wallflower (Roll With Me, Henry)” and “At Last,” the latter of which has become a fixture at weddings.
James first rose to fame in her teenage years when “The Wallflower (Roll With Me, Henry)” rose all the way to number one on the R&B charts. The song was a response to Hank Ballard’s “Work With Me, Annie,” also an R&B No. 1. A string of hits followed for James. James won six Grammy Awards and is a member of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
James battled several different health problems in her life, including heroin addiction (for which she entered rehab in 1970 and again in the 80s). At one point, she reportedly weighed over 400 pounds.
Until her recent battle with leukemia, James continued to tour and delight audiences across the country.
James died with her family by her side. She is survived by husband Artis Mills and sons Donto James and Sametto James. Recently, there were reports that he husband and sons were battling over control of her estate in court. It is unclear where that issue stands at this time.
