NEWARK, NJ — Newark is joining the nation – and music lovers around the world – in mourning the loss of the "Queen of Soul," Aretha Franklin.

After Franklin's passing on Thursday, several members of the Newark arts community and elected officials spoke about the legendary Motown singer in glowing terms and lauded her compassion, deep humanity and ability to turn pain into a passion for justice. The Institute of Jazz Studies at Rutgers University-Newark wrote that Franklin was "an American icon" and one of the great voices of our time.

"Ms. Franklin was steeped in American and especially African-American music, and her genius, mastery, and versatility were surpassed only by her deep humanity and spiritual connection to all. Hers was a gift that she shared widely, giving us the best of herself and in so doing, helping us to see the best in ourselves and one another. The entire Rutgers University-Newark community joins a global audience in sadness but also celebration of a great artist, a great woman, and a great human being. The world has lost a great artist but one whose legacy will endure." U.S. Rep. Donald Payne Jr., who represents Newark, said that his heart goes out to Franklin's family and friends. "She broke down barriers for women and African Americans," Payne stated. "She demanded respect—for herself and for people across this country. She gave voice to pain and turned it into passion for justice. Rest in peace."

The New Jersey Performing Arts Center (NJPAC) – where Franklin turned out several performances over the past two decades – issued a heartfelt quote that referenced one of the singer's most well-known efforts, "Respect." NJPAC President and CEO John Schreiber said of Franklin:

"As the unrivaled #QueenofSoul, Aretha Franklin proved time and again to be the consummate performer who demanded our R-E-S-P-E-C-T in song, and received it every time she stepped on stage. She was beloved by NJPAC audiences through two decades, and we deeply mourn the passing of this great-hearted, golden-voiced artist." Watch some videos of Franklin's past performances at the NJPAC in Newark below. Don't forget to visit the Patch Newark Facebook page here.