Legendary singer, WrestleMania celebrity and “The Queen of Soul”, Aretha Franklin, passed away today at the age of 76 after battling pancreatic cancer.
Franklin performed the song “America the Beautiful” at two WWE WrestleMania events, with the first performance taking place at Wrestlemania 3 at the Pontiac Silverdome in 1987. The second performance took place at WrestleMania 23 in Detroit at Ford Field. Additionally, Franklin’s song “Who’s Zoomin’ Who?” was used as the theme song for WrestleMania 3.
WWE issued the following statement on Franklin’s passing:
WWE is saddened to learn that legendary singer and songwriter Aretha Franklin has passed away. The multi-time Grammy Award winner performed a rousing rendition of “America the Beautiful” at WrestleMania III and again at WrestleMania 23. WWE extends its condolences to her family, friends and fans.
R.I.P. to the Queen of soul Aretha Franklin. Thank you for all the great song and everything that you have contributed to the world of music. You will be missed . My prayers and thoughts are with you and your family. #ArethaFranklin pic.twitter.com/IOnJlM0xYw
— D-von Dudley (@TestifyDVon) August 16, 2018
Rest in peace to the Queen of Soul, #ArethaFranklin
It’s a shame that we are reminded of someone’s talent only after they leave us. Take a moment to enjoy her performance at @WWE Wrestlemania III
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Aretha Franklin performs “America the Beautiful”: https://t.co/rAostBTPFM via @wwe
— Mustafa Ali (@MustafaAliWWE) August 16, 2018
Aretha Franklin sings “America the Beautiful” at WrestleMania 3 at the Pontiac Silverdome pic.twitter.com/wZ4M3XUcKT
— ProWrestling.com (@pw_dotcom) August 16, 2018