230EttaJames%20copy.jpgBeloved soul singer Etta James, the powerful voice behind the chart-topping 1961 hit "At Last," has died at the age of 73 after losing a lengthy battle with leukemia, her Longtime friend and manager, Lupe De Leon, said on Friday.

De Leon, first confirmed the news to CNN, saying in a statement:

    "This is a tremendous loss for the family, her friends and fans around the world. She was a true original who could sing it all – her music defied category. I worked with Etta for over 30 years. She was my friend and I will miss her always."


James was first admitted to the hospital in January 2010, after suffering from a blood infection, before retuning to seek care in May 2011 for a urinary tract infection and the blood infection sepsis.

The four-time Grammy winner was inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1993, and was famously portrayed by Beyonce in the 2008 movie Cadillac Records.

Knowles released a statement after the singer's death, expressing: "This is a huge loss. Etta James was one of the greatest vocalists of our time. I am so fortunate to have met such a queen. Her musical contributions will last a lifetime."