An all-star lineup of Gladys Knight, Ledisi, Donnie McClurkin, CeCe Winans and Mary Mary assembled at the American Music Awards Tuesday (Oct. 9) to pay tribute to the late Aretha Franklin, with a medley that focused on Franklin’s gospel roots, including several hymns that she had performed famous renditions of.
Following a special video homage to the legendary Queen of Soul that focused on the artist’s long history as a host, performer and winner at the AMAs, Knight took the stage to perform Franklin’s drawn-out interpretation of “Amazing Grace.” Then, minister and gospel singer McClurkin relieved Knight to perform “Climb Higher Mountains,” which was used as the recessional song at her funeral.
From there, gospel legend Winans delivered a rousing rendition of “Mary Don’t You Weep,” followed by R&B/jazz singer Ledisi belting an invigorating “How I Got Over.” Contemporary gospel duo Mary Mary closed things out with a backing ensemble-assisted “Old Landmark.”
SOURCE: Billboard.com