Sir Paul McCartney and others have paid an emotional tribute to Aretha Franklin who died August 16 at the age of 76.

The publicist for Franklin confirmed that she had died on Thursday at her home in Detroit. The Iconic soul singer Franklin was reported to be “gravely ill” in recent week and her family gathered around her bedside.

Franklin, 76, known by all as the ‘Queen of Soul’, received hospice care at her home in Detroit surrounded by her closest friends and family as she eventually ended her long battle against severe health problems.

Franklin, who has a long affinity with The Beatles, covered their tracks multiple times during her long and esteemed career. Now, McCartney has remembered here: “Let’s all take a moment to give thanks for the beautiful life of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of our souls, who inspired us all for many many years,” he said on social media. “She will be missed but the memory of her greatness as a musician and a fine human being will live with us forever. Love Paul”

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Let’s all take a moment to give thanks for the beautiful life of Aretha Franklin, the Queen of our souls, who inspired us all for many many years. She will be missed but the memory of her greatness as a musician and a fine human being will live with us forever. Love Paul pic.twitter.com/jW4Gpwfdts — Paul McCartney (@PaulMcCartney) August 16, 2018

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The family of Franklin said: “In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our heart. We have lost the matriarch and rock of our family,” a family statement read. “The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins knew no bounds.

“We have been deeply touched by the incredible outpouring of love and support we have received from close friends, supporters and fans around the world.

“Thank you for your compassion and prayers. We have felt your love for Aretha and it brings us great comfort to know her legacy will live on. As we grieve, we ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.”

The news of Franklin’s death has lead to outpourings of tribute’s for the music industry. Barbra Streisand shared a picture of herself with Franklin along with the caption: “This photo was taken in 2012 when Aretha and I performed at a tribute celebration for our friend Marvin Hamlisch.

“It’s difficult to conceive of a world without her.

“Not only was she a uniquely brilliant singer, but her commitment to civil rights made an indelible impact on the world.”

Annie Lennox added: “As the One and Only ‘Queen of Soul’ Aretha Franklin was simply peerless. She has reigned supreme. And will always be held in the highest firmament of stars as the most exceptional vocalist, performer and recording artist the world has ever been privileged to witness.

“Superlatives are often used to describe astonishing artists, but in my view, even superlatives seem insufficient. Everyone who loved Aretha will be saying little prayers of gratitude, appreciation and respect for the musical life force that enriched our lives.

“Her voice will soar on forever…”

Sir Mick Jagger said in a statement: “Very sad to hear the news about Aretha, she was so inspiring and wherever you were she always brought you to church.”

Elton John took to Instagram to say: “Her voice was unique, her piano playing underrated, she was one of my favourite pianists. I was fortunate enough to spend time with her and witness her last performance – a benefit for the Elton John Aids Foundation at St John The Divine Cathedral.

“She was obviously unwell, and I wasn’t sure she could perform. But Aretha did and she raised the roof. She sang and played magnificently, and we all wept. We were witnessing the greatest soul artist of all time. I adored her and worshipped her talent. God bless her|