WATCH: Aretha Franklin’s Funeral Program Is ‘Rock Steady’ Stacked
Musical stars and dignitaries come out for the funeral services of the Queen of Soul
The Queen of Soul is about to be laid to rest in glorious style. Fitting for a Queen.
The close-to-seven hour-long funeral will feature performances from Stevie Wonder, Fantasia, the Clark Sisters, Chaka Khan, Ron Isley, Yolanda Adams, Jennifer Hudson, Smokey Robinson, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, Faith Hill, Bishop Paul S. Morton, gospel icon Shirley Caesar and will be accompanied by the Aretha Franklin Celebration Choir (assembled by various church choirs and members of the Whitfield Company) and the Aretha Franklin Orchestra.
Reflections and tributes will include words from Clive Davis, Cicely Tyson, Michael Eric Dyson, TD Jakes, Detroit mayor Mike Duggan, Detroit governor Rick Snyder, Judge Greg Mathis, former US President Bill Clinton, Rev. Al Sharpton, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Dr. William J. Barber and a closing eulogy from Franklin’s close friend, Rev. Jasper Williams. The latter appeared on Franklin’s 1987 gospel album One Lord, One Faith, One Baptism and served as the eulogist for Rev. CL Franklin.
Added to the program’s ceremony late this week, pop star Ariana Grande, who wowed television audiences “Natural Woman” on The Tonight Show with backing from The Roots, will also perform a selection.
The star-studded ceremony, held at the 4,000 seat Greater Grace Church in Detroit, will be a private service for family and friends, but will be televised on select media outlets thanks to a live feed provided by the Associated Press. CNN, BET and Fox News will offer portions of the live video.
If you recall, Greater Grace was the site for previous public servants including Rosa Parks and former Motown giant Levi Stubbs (of the Four Tops).
WATCH LIVE FEED FOR ARETHA FRANKLIN’S FUNERAL