Everyone — ranging from renowned singers and musicians to politicians, athletes and tech CEOs — grieved for the legendary “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin following her death Thursday morning.
“The Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, is dead. She was a great woman, with a wonderful gift from God, her voice. She will be missed!” tweeted President Trump.
Iconic singer Diana Ross wrote that she is “sitting in prayer for the wonderful golden spirit Aretha Franklin.” Carole King added, “What a life. What a legacy!”
Beatles Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr also took a moment to pay tribute to the legendary “Queen of Soul.”
“She will be missed but the memory of her greatness as a musician and a fine human being will live with us forever,” McCartney tweeted, while Starr sent “peace and love to her family.”
Pop singer Christina Aguilera said Franklin was an inspiration to her and many others.
“The ultimate queen. Thank you for the gift of your voice, music and unshakable soul,” she wrote.
Singer-songwriter John Legend tweeted that Franklin was “the greatest vocalist I’ve ever known.”
Politicians also sent their condolences.
“Aretha Franklin used the power of her unforgettable voice to lift up others and shine a light on injustice,” Gov. Andrew Cuomo tweeted. “Today, we mourn the Queen.”
Hillary Clinton wrote that Franklin deserves “not only our RESPECT but also our lasting gratitude for opening our eyes, ears and hearts.”
Meanwhile, basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar wrote that “Aretha’s voice is a major part of the American soundscape. It’s part of our memories when we smiled and rocked to her beat.”
Apple CEO Tim Cook also said he was mourning Franklin’s death at age 76 from pancreatic cancer.
“Her voice will keep lifting us, through the music she gave the world,” he wrote.