Stars pay tribute as legendary R&B singer laid to rest

Rhythm & blues legend Etta James was remembered at a service attended by hundreds of friends, family and fans as a woman who triumphed against all odds to break down cultural and musical barriers in a style that was unfailingly honest.

The Reverend Al Sharpton, a civil rights activist, eulogised James in a rousing speech, describing her remarkable rise from poverty and pain to become a woman whose music became an enduring anthem for weddings and adverts.

Perhaps most famously, President Barack Obama and the first lady shared their first inaugural ball dance to At Last sung by Beyoncé, who portrayed James in the film Cadillac Records.

“Etta will be remembered for her legendary voice and her contributions to our nation’s musical heritage,” said a statement from Obama that was read out at the funeral.

The Grammy-winning singer died on January 20 after battling leukaemia and other ailments, including dementia.

She had retreated from public life in recent years, but her legacy was on display as mourners of all ages and races converged on the City of Refuge church in Gardena, Los Angeles.

Among the stars performing tributes to James were Stevie Wonder and Christina Aguilera. Wonder performed three songs, including Shelter In the Rain and a harmonica solo. James’s rose-draped coffin was on display, surrounded by wreaths, floral arrangements and pictures of the singer.

“The genius of Etta James is she flipped the script,” Sharpton said, alluding to her struggles with addict-ion, which she overcame.

“She waited until she turned her pain into power,” he said, adding that it turned her story away from a tragic one into a triumph.

James is survived by her husband of 42 years, Artis Mills, and two sons, Donto and Sametto James.

“Mom, I love you,” Donto said. “When I get to the gates, can you please be there for me?”