Etta James

Full Name: Jamesetta Hawkins
Profession: Singer-Songwriter

Biography: Jamesetta was the product of a broken home, and found solace in song. First as a member of her church choir, and then bitten by the doo-wop bug. As a teenager, she was discovered and championed by bandleader and impresario Johnny Otis. Otis suggested the stage name of Etta James and produced her early hit "The Wallflower" with her girl group, The Peaches.

James went on to a solo career with smash cross-over hit "At Last". She continued recording R&B and blues music, although hampered by the instability caused by substance abuse and addiction, she recorded memorable tunes such as "Tell Mama", "I'd Rather Be Blind", and "Something's Got A Hold of Me".

She was recognized by her peers with inductions in to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (1993), the Grammy Hall of Fame (1999), the Rockabilly Hall of Fame (2001), and the Blues Hall of Fame in (2001). She also received a Grammy lifetime achievement award in 2003.

In 2009, Beyoncé performed a cover of "At Last" at the inaugural ball for President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama's first dance as the first couple.

Born: January 25, 1938
Birthplace: Los Angeles, California, USA

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Ox
Star Sign: Aquarius

Died: January 20, 2012 (aged 73)
Cause of Death: Leukemia