Madonna leads music world’s tribute to American singer Aretha Franklin at MTV Video Music Awards
‘Queen of Pop’ pays R-E-S-P-E-C-Ts to ‘Queen of Soul’ at the VMAs, attended by winners Ariana Grande, Camila Cabello, Jennifer Lopez and host of stars
“Queen of Pop” Madonna led an impassioned tribute to the “Queen of Soul” Aretha Franklin on Monday as the music world paid its R-E-S-P-E-C-Ts to the American superstar at the MTV Video Music Awards.
The show came four days after 76-year-old Franklin died of pancreatic cancer and the industry used the programme to send Franklin off in style.
“She led me to where I am today, and I know she influenced so many people in this house tonight, in this room tonight,” said Madonna, who turned 60 last Thursday – the day Franklin died.
Franklin has influenced generations of singers with iconic hits including Natural Woman and I Say a Little Prayer.
But Respect (1967) was her signature tune and the broadcast ended with a recording of Aretha belting out the Otis Redding cover as the audience danced wildly.
“I want to thank you, Aretha, for empowering all of us. R-E-S-P-E-C-T. Long live the Queen,” Madonna added.
Fast-rising rapper Cardi B – who recently became a mother – was expected to launch the show at New York’s Radio City Music Hall with a song, but instead she turned heads by simulating breastfeeding onstage.
She left the performing duties to Canadian singer and songwriter Shawn Mendes, who treated fans to his acclaimed single In My Blood, which chronicles his struggle with anxiety disorder.