Nicole Atkins Honors Aretha Franklin In Columbus

Vocalist Nicole Atkins performed a concert last night at The Basement in Columbus, Ohio. The evening began with Atkins paying tribute to Aretha Franklin who passed away yesterday at the age of 76.

Prior to Thursday’s show, Atkins posted a message on Instagram in honor of Franklin. Atkins wrote:

I wish our heroes could live forever young and through their songs and recordings they will in a way. My heart hurts so much right now because her voice always made it feel like it would burst with love and happiness every time I heard it. I’m so grateful that God gave us all your talent. Your voice is absolute life and all the strength in the cosmos. Rest in peace sweet Aretha.

Atkins then began her set in Columbus by performing part of Franklin’s hit “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman” before transitioning to “Neptune City.” Listen to Atkins’ tribute to Aretha as well as the rest of Thursday’s concert via taper Charles Dewey Cole, IV below: