Why Etta James Wasn't Impressed With Beyoncé
Beyoncé is best known for being a powerhouse vocalist and energetic performer. However, the Grammy award-winning singer has also made notable strides within the acting world. During the early 2000s, Beyoncé appeared in a string of films such as "Carmen: A Hip Hopera," "Austin Powers in Goldmember," and "The Fighting Temptations." And while Beyoncé achieved varying degrees of box office success, it wasn't until she stepped into the role of Deena Jones during 2006's "Dreamgirls," the film iteration of the popular Broadway play that follows the ups and downs of a girl group, that it felt like she truly arrived as an actor.
Two years later, Beyoncé took another stab at dramatic acting, this time playing the role of (the now late) Etta James in "Cadillac Records," a biopic that chronicled the "turbulent lives of some of America's musical legends," per IMDb. During the film, Beyoncé proved that she had the acting chops to go up against seasoned actors such as Adrien Brody and Jeffrey Wright. "It's maybe not quite that revelatory a performance, but it's easily Knowles' best — and she doesn't just shine when she's singing," wrote David Sims for The Atlantic. Of course, Beyoncé's rendition of James's 1960's hit, "At Last," also garnered much fanfare among viewers and critics. In 2009, Beyoncé even sang her version of "At Last" at President Barack Obama's Neighborhood Inaugural Ball.
Unfortunately, James wasn't a fan of Beyoncé stepping into her shoes for such a momentous occasion.
Etta James didn't like Beyoncé singing her song at the inauguration
Initially, Etta James seemed pleased with Beyoncé's portrayal of her in "Cadillac Records." In 2008, James even walked the red carpet with Beyoncé when "Cadillac Records" first hit the theaters, per MTV. However, by the time Beyoncé sang "At Last" at Barack Obama's Inauguration, James may have added herself to the list of celebrities who hate Beyoncé. A few weeks later, in February 2009, James reportedly made some rather disparaging comments about Beyoncé while performing live. "I tell you that woman he had singing for him, singing my song, she gonna get her a** whipped," said James. "The great Beyoncé. Now like I said, she ain't mine. I can't stand Beyoncé! She had no business up there singing. Singing on a big ole, big ole president day and going be singing my song that I've been singing forever" (via The Telegraph).
As expected, James' comments garnered a great deal of attention. Interestingly enough, James later retracted her statements and claimed that she was actually joking. "I didn't really mean anything," James explained to the New York Daily News. "Even as a little child, I've always had that comedian kind of attitude. ... That's probably what went into it." James also shared that she felt a bit slighted about not being able to sing her own song (via MTV).
Beyoncé honored Etta James on her birthday
Despite Etta James' colorful comments, Beyoncé has always spoken highly of the blues legend. While promoting "Cadillac Records" in 2009, Beyoncé sang James' praises during an interview with Fox News. "She was such a brilliant musician and her voice just ... oh my God," Beyoncé said. "She had so much soul and passion and pain and vulnerability all in one. And it didn't matter if it was rock and roll ... jazz, whatever. She made it her own."
Three years later, James died at the age of 73. And while Beyoncé had largely stopped doing interviews, she did share a meaningful tribute to James on her website. "This is a huge loss. Etta James was one of the greatest vocalists of our time," shared Beyoncé. "I am so fortunate to have met such a queen. Her musical contributions will last a lifetime." Beyoncé also shared that portraying James "taught me so much about myself, and singing her music inspired me to be a stronger artist" (via Page Six).