With a powerful and versatile personality and overwhelming voice, Etta James was one of the most transgressive women of her time and crowned herself as one of the great soul voices of the 20th century XX.
Born Jamesetta Hawkins (Los Angeles-California) in 1938, she soon demonstrated her talent when she started singing gospel with the church choir she often attended, which led her to participate in radio programs at the age of five, in addition to forming her group when she was just a teenager. He then worked for Johnny Otis, who was his great discoverer, godfather and responsible, not only for his stage name, but for some of his greatest hits, “Roll with Me Henry”, “Don’t get much”, “Something’s got A Hold on me” “Tell Mama” or “I’d rather go blind”.
However, among all his successes, one song stands out par excellence, “At last”. An ode to the joy of living in all its most transparent energy and it is considered as one of the most beautiful vocal interpretations. Proof of this is that even Beyoncé Knowles himself, did not hesitate to give life to the soul diva in the 2008 film, “Cadillac Records” being one of the most acclaimed moments the interpretation of that song. And, of course, what elevated her to the top of the world, was the inaugural ball of Barack Obama, on January 20, 2009, which coincides with the anniversary of Etta James, was chosen by the 44th President of the United States.
A long musical career that had its lights and shadows, but where sublime moments abound thanks to his strong personality and immeasurable optimism worthy of admiration. It is undeniable the legacy of such an exceptional voice, an incomparable force on stage, his passion in every performance and his contribution to the music industry.
