BeBe Winans, Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar and More Set to Perform for The GRAMMYs Tribute to Aretha Franklin
Via That Grape Juice:
The world mourned the loss of Aretha Franklin, who passed away on August 16th aged 76.
Yet, with a life and legacy as prolific as hers, a mammoth celebration was always on the cards.
And the GRAMMY body are at the helm.
For, on January 13th, a special – aptly christened ‘Aretha! A GRAMMY Celebration For The Queen Of Soul’ – is set to be taped.
And an all-star line-up of performers have been announced to honor the music royal.
Head below for details…
In a statement issued moments ago, it was revealed that Tyler Perry will serve as host of the show, which’ll be taking place at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.
Performers on the bill will blend known, new, and altogether potent names.
They include:
Celine Dion, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Patti LaBelle, and BeBe Winans, Yolanda Adams, Shirley Caesar, Alessia Cara, Kelly Clarkson, Common, Brandi Carlile, Chloe X Halle, H.E.R., Janelle Monáe, and SZA.
More performers for the show (which broadcasts later in 2019) are expected to be a unveiled imminently. Tickets go on-sale December 31st.
Speaking in the same statement, Neil Portnow, President/CEO of the Recording Academy, said:
“Aretha Franklin’s reign as the Queen of Soul is incomparable and undisputed. For more than six decades, her extraordinary artistic achievements coupled with her passionate dedication to her philanthropic work—which ranged from children’s and artists’ issues to civil rights activism—served as a testament to her power, majesty, and genius. These gifts positioned her as a true cultural icon, and the Recording Academy is honored to celebrate her inspirational legacy.”
Ken Ehrlich, executive producer of of the special, added:
“We’re approaching this show with extremely mixed feelings of sadness and joy, two qualities that over my 37 years of working with Aretha were often present. Our hope is that we will be able to share her remarkable musical and cultural accomplishments through her own words and music as well as through the performances of an amazing group of musical artists who will gather to celebrate her rich musical heritage.”
Clive Davis, Franklin’s longtime collaborator concluded:
“I am thrilled to have the Recording Academy and CBS as partners in this global tribute to my very dear friend Aretha Franklin.
Aretha was more than the Queen of Soul; she was a national treasure. This unique concert—featuring many of today’s greatest artists—will celebrate Aretha in a spectacular manner befitting her once-in-a-lifetime talent.”
An eclectic and fitting list of talent has been assembled to honor the queen and we can’t wait to see and hear how their salutes play out.
Will you be watching?
