Lunch Break Videos: An appreciation of the great Etta James who died today at the age of 73

TRIBUTE: So sad to learn of the death today of singing legend Etta James. Her assertive, earthy voice lit up such hits as The Wallflower, Something’s Got a Hold on Me and, of course, At Last.

I saw her sing live exactly once and will never for get it. I was working a weekend shift for the Los Angeles Times in the early 90s and was assigned to cover a Blues Festival in Dana Point. I remember sitting on a grassy hill and listening to Miss James’ set, going back to the office to write the story then heading to the store to buy several of her CDs.

I’ve never stopped playing them.

Here are a trio of videos of her performing At Last, Something’s Got A Hold on Me and Take a Piece of My Heart.