Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
In Memoriam: James Blood Ulmer, 1940–2026
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
Following Aretha Franklin’s death on Thursday, an outpouring of emotion and appreciation for her work washed over social media channels. Here are a few selections, followed by excerpts from interviews with a pair of musicians who had the chance to work with the singer.
I’ve lost another sister but I am so thankful for all the wonderful memories that we have had. I will love you always Re. pic.twitter.com/mv0cBSA8hk
— Mavis Staples (@mavisstaples) August 16, 2018
RIP Aretha. It’s about more than just music pic.twitter.com/cYJ8GsDaLC
— Jeff Parker (@jeffparkersound) August 16, 2018
Rest in power. pic.twitter.com/Y5U03sPL9U
— vijay iyer (@vijayiyer) August 16, 2018
Absolute and thorough soul through and through. Not just the Queen of song, Ms. Franklin was a fount of great stories delivered with downhome wit, intelligence and incredible insight. The soul quotient in the world is lower today. #ArethaFranklin pic.twitter.com/8XPuYZJHi2
— Wynton Marsalis (@wyntonmarsalis) August 16, 2018
Rest In Peace to our Queen of Soul. Her contribution to music and to the empowerment and enrichment of our hearts, Spirits and souls is immeasurable.
Thank you Ms. Aretha Franklin for sharing your anointed gifts with us. They changed the world. We are deeply grateful!♥️MLH
— Ms. Lauryn Hill (@MsLaurynHill) August 16, 2018
Rest in power, QUEEN <3, in your name we will make a joyful noise #ArethaFranklin https://t.co/iEeh4s5HX5
— Caroline Davis (@caroenildavis) August 16, 2018
“She knew every piece of music that was going on around her. But what really touched my heart was that you could feel her spirit. She spoke like she sang, so you could feel the emotion flowing from her. It was all natural. That’s what was so amazing about her vocals. Some people are good live and not in the studio, and some people are good in the studio and not live. Aretha Franklin was the whole package.” —Joan Collaso, a Chicago-based vocalist, who sang backup with Franklin on her final tour
“She was very kind to me. In this business, most singers are not that sensitive or personal toward their band members. In playing with her, her piano playing was very touching and special.” —Chuck Rainey, a bassist who played on several Franklin albums, including Young, Gifted And Black (1972), Amazing Grace (1972) and With Everything I Feel in Me (1974) DB
To the world, James Blood Ulmer was a legend, a visionary and a musical force whose sound was distinctive and unique. To his family, he was their teacher, their storyteller and a source of strength.
Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
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