Aretha Franklin, the Queen of Soul, has died at the age of 76 from advanced pancreatic cancer. According to the Associated Press, a publicist for the legendary singer said she passed away Thursday (Aug. 16) at her home in Detroit, Michigan.

Franklin's publicist Gwendolyn Quinn revealed an official family statement to the Associated Press, which you can read in full below.

Franklin’s official cause of death was due to advanced pancreatic cancer of the neuroendocrine type, which was confirmed by Franklin’s oncologist, Dr. Philip Phillips of Karmanos Cancer Institute. In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our heart. We have lost the matriarch and rock of our family. The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins knew no bounds. We have been deeply touched by the incredible outpouring of love and support we have received from close friends, supporters and fans all around the world. Thank you for your compassion and prayers. We have felt your love for Aretha and it brings us comfort to know that her legacy will live on. As we grieve, we ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.

Franklin's influence across multiple generations cannot be understated. Tributes have been pouring in from public figures across the board. We have compiled a list of rockers, including everyone from Paul McCartney to Papa Roach, who have commented on the singer's passing, which you can see below.

In an exclusive statement to Loudwire, Judas Priest frontman Rob Halford said, "As a 16-year-old discovering the power of the voice in music, I heard Aretha blast out 'Respect' and electrify me with her soul and message. I love you Aretha. Thank you — R.I.P."

 

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