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Industry notables reflect on the passing of the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin

A national treasure to everyone.  But to me personally, Aretha Franklin was my dear, dear friend, my homegirl, and I loved her a lot.  From seeing her as a baby singing and playing at the piano at her father’s home, to her giving  a rousing performance atthe White House, she has always been amazing.  No matter how the music has changed over the years, she remained so relevant.
Though never signed to Motown, Aretha was considered part of my family.  We always shared fond memories of the Motor City, life, and just things. Her passing is not only a tremendous personal loss for me, but for people all over the world who were touched by her incredible gift and remarkable spirit. Aretha Franklin will always be the undisputed Queen of Soul, and her legacy will live forever.
My condolences go out to her sons, other family members, friends and fans.  I will miss her.
—Berry Gordy, Founder of Motown

Aretha Franklin was truly one of the great singers of our time. She was blessed with a once in a lifetime voice. A blessing only handed down to a chosen few. I had the pleasure of knowing and sharing some wonderful times with her. We were label mates on Arista Records, we had planned to do a duet together and somehow we never got it done. So sad to lose someone who was such and integral part of our history of music. Her music will continue to soothe the souls of everyone across the planet and ring out through the gates of heaven. —Jeffrey Osborne

It’s a sad day for the world with the loss of our Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin. My career is one of many that stand on the shoulders of not only a phenomenal voice but also an extraordinary woman. My family and I send love and prayers to her family. Her legacy will live on forever. —Bobby Brown

KBLX-SF, breaks format today in honor of the loss of legendary superstar, Aretha Franklin. The Morning Dream Team abandoned their normal format as soon as it was confirmed that the world lost an iconic star. Listeners called in with nostalgic memories of Aretha Franklin. The KBLX Dream Team members, Antoine Davis, Tony Sco. and Kimmie Tee shared their memories of Aretha as well. KBLX will honor Aretha Franklin in song all day today, playing her biggest hits back to back. According to Operations Director/Program Director, Elroy Smith, we started at 7 a.m. with this tribute and we will continue until 7 p.m. tonight. This Aretha Franklin take-over is well deserved. Listen to KBLX.COM.–Elroy Smith, OM/PD KBLX-San Francisco

“I am deeply saddened about the passing of the Queen of Soul and my sister in song, Aretha Franklin,” LaBelle said in a statement on Twitter. She termed Franklin “a rare treasure whose unmatched musical genius helped craft the soundtrack to the lives of so many.”–Patti LaBelle