Aretha! A Grammy Celebration for the Queen of Soul, which will subsequently be broadcast on CBS in 2019, will feature a host of artists performing songs from the late singer's repertoire. Currently scheduled to perform are The Color Purple star and Dreamgirls Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson and Grammy winners Yolanda Adams (SpongeBob SquarePants score contributor), Shirley Caesar, Alessia Cara, Kelly Clarkson, Common, Celine Dion, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Patti LaBelle, and BeBe Winans, as well as Brandi Carlile, Chloe X Halle, H.E.R., Janelle Monáe, and SZA.
Actor and filmmaker Tyler Perry will host.
Tickets go on sale December 27 at 10AM PT at AXS.com.
“This special will celebrate Aretha Franklin’s numerous accomplishments as an entertainment icon, singer, songwriter, pianist, actress and civil rights activist,” said Jack Sussman, executive vice president, Specials, Music and Live Events, CBS Entertainment, in a statement. “Aretha had an incredible effect on humanity and music with her indomitable spirit and grace. We look forward to honoring this music legend with numerous performers who all admire and respect the Queen of Soul.”
“Aretha Franklin's reign as the ‘Queen of Soul’ is incomparable and undisputed,” added Neil Portnow, president/CEO of the Recording Academy. “For more than six decades, her extraordinary artistic achievements coupled with her passionate dedication to her philanthropic work—which ranged from children's and artists' issues to civil rights activism—served as a testament to her power, majesty, and genius. These gifts positioned her as a true cultural icon, and the Recording Academy is honored to celebrate her inspirational legacy.”
The evening is produced by AEG Ehrlich Ventures, LLC. Ehrlich and Clive Davis are executive producers; Ron Basile and Chantel Sausedo are producers; and David Wild is the writer/producer.
