According to Showbiz411, previous plans to host a star-studded tribute to Aretha Franklin were in the works before the soul legend fell ill earlier this week. The “Rock Steady” singer’s 60-year impact on the music industry will be highlighted throughout the proposed event, which is rumored to happen in November at New York City’s Madison Square Garden.
The news site states artists that’ll take the stage may include those that have covered the 76-year-old’s songs or those who penned some of her melodies. An artist that’s reportedly set to perform is Jennifer Hudson who will also play Franklin in her biopic, as revealed by longtime music industry executive Clive Davis.
“When the biopic of the great Aretha Franklin is filmed next year, the artist anointed by Aretha herself to play her is the next performer,” Davis said at a pre-Grammy showcase. “Aretha personally told me that last week. This artist to us is a transcendent performer. She stops any and every show she’s in. Her voice is truly incredible.”
Showbiz411 also reports that Davis discussed the tribute idea with Franklin in June for a “Clive Davis Presents: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin” showcase for Nov. 14.
Franklin’s family and close friends asked for prayers and privacy during this time. Since the news broke, artists like Beyonce and JAY-Z paid tribute to the legend.
Details on the tribute special are still forthcoming.
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