Etta James goes to rest with a rousing funeral

Etta James goes to rest with a rousing funeral:  Christina Aguilera and Stevie Wonder performed, Pandit turned preacher Al Sharpton eulogized and President Obama paid tribute in a statement Saturday at the funeral in California's legendary rhythm & blues singer Etta James.

Hundreds of friends, family and fans of James, who died on 20 January at the age of 73 years after battling leukemia and other diseases, turned out for a rousing farewell to an artist noted for his authentic singing style and his triumph against all odds to break down the barriers of cultural, racial and musical.

Late in life, beautiful classic 1961 James ' finally became an anthem for weddings and commercials-and a presidential inauguration. President Obama and his wife, first lady Michelle Obama, shared their first inaugural ball dance in January 2009 a version of the song sung by Beyonce.

Reverend Sharpton, a civil rights activist who now houses an exhibition of cable news and a longtime friend of the singer, opened his eulogy at the service, in a church in Gardena South of downtown Los Angeles, reading a statement by the President.

"Etta will be remembered for his legendary voice and his contribution to the musical heritage of our nation," read, reported the Associated Press.

With rose-draped casket of James ' on display, surrounded by floral and images of the singer of four times Grammy winner and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee, wonder and Aguilera filled the Church of the city of refuge with their voices. Aguilera told the mourners that James was his musical inspiration, and that she has included finally in every concert in homage.

"No matter who finally sang before or after Etta, ' said Rep. Maxine Waters, Democrat Congressman, who also spoke. "It doesn't matter when it was sung, or where it was sung. At last he was branded by Etta, vulgar-diva who is his signature and we will always remember her. "

After overcoming poverty, personal pain and addiction, Sharpton said, James turned his grief into power and art, its history from tragedy to triumph.

"Beat 'em, Etta," Sharpton said in conclusion, as the mourners assembled roared for the feet. "Finally. At last. Finally! "