Queen of Soul in hospital

Aretha Franklin, known as the Queen of Soul, is gravely ill and was understood to be in a Detroit hospital yesterday surrounded by her family. The 76year-old hits include 1967’s Respect and 1968’s I Say A Little Prayer. Franklin (above) was the first female artist to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

ARETHA Franklin is gravely ill and is “asking for your prayers”, the performer’s friends said yesterday.

The 76-year-old American singer (right), known as the Queen of Soul, was understood to be in a Detroit hospital surrounded by her family.

Her hits include 1967’s Respect and 1968’s I Say A Little Prayer. She was the first female artist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

The twice-married mother of four was diagnosed with an unspecified illness in 2010, reported to be pancreatic cancer.

Her friend Evrod Cassimy wrote online: “I am so saddened to report that the Queen of Soul and my good friend Aretha Franklin is gravely ill. She is asking for your prayers at this time.”

American journalist Roland Martin shared a picture of himself with Miss Franklin at her birthday in 2016 and wrote: “Many of you are asking me to confirm the health status of Aretha Franklin. Folks, I’ve known for several months.

“The Queen is surrounded by loved ones. That’s all I will say for now. Please keep her, the family and her longtime support staff in your prayers.”

Her last public performance was in Philadelphia last August, although she performed privately in November.