The music world has been paying tribute to Aretha Franklin since the Queen of Soul’s death last Thursday, and Monday’s MTV Video Music Awards was no exception.
The renowned singer died on Thursday at age 76, following a battle with pancreatic cancer, and on Monday, Madonna took the stage at Radio City Music Hall in New York City to present the award for Video of the Year and celebrate Franklin’s life and legacy.
Madonna recalled the Queen of Soul’s influence on her own life and career, recounting how she sang Franklin’s hit “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” during one of her first-ever musical theater auditions when she was a struggling, up-and-coming performer.
“That was the beginning of my journey as a singer… and the rest is history,” she told the crowd. “None of this would have happened, could have happened, without Our Lady of Soul. She led me to where I am today, and I know she influenced so many people in this room tonight. I want to thank you Aretha for empowering all of us. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Long live the queen.”
https://twitter.com/vmas/status/1031743393410572288
