Beyoncé Pays Tribute To Soul Legend Etta James

Beyoncé has paid tribute to soul singer Etta James, who died yesterday at the age of 73.

James, who most famously sang the civil rights anthem At Last, passed away in a California hospital following a long battle with leukaemia.

And Beyoncé - who portrayed James in 2008 movie Cadillac Records - mourned her by describing her as "one of the greatest vocalists of our time".

She posted a message on her website which read: "This is a huge loss. I am so fortunate to have met such a queen. Her musical contributions will last a lifetime.

"Playing Etta James taught me so much about myself, and singing her music inspired me to be a stronger artist. When she effortlessly opened her mouth, you could hear her pain and triumph.

"Her deeply emotional way of delivering a song told her story with no filter. She was fearless, and had guts. She will be missed."