"At Last" singer Etta James dies at 73 (tribute cover version by Christian Artist Karl Messner)

Etta James, the powerful jazz and blues vocalist died Friday in Riverside, CA. She was 73. Best known for her rendition of "At Last" from "Orchestra Wives", the musical. Ray Eberle and Pat Friday sang the song originally, but once Etta did it, she owned it.

I was asked to perform "At Last" as the perfect wedding song for a friend, but the upbeat style of the original wouldn't lend itself to a formal wedding. I rearranged the song for baritone male voice and solo, acoustic guitar.

The song was recorded in a couple takes and attempts to capture the raw emotion of Etta James at a softer volume. This version of At Last is being considered for an upcoming album.

Category:

News & Politics

Tags:

• Etta James
• Dies
• At Last
• cover
• tribute

[MrChasekennedy]

Karl, this is amazing! :D your voice is so timeless, I can't wait to hear more. It's just so beautiful, and such a refreshing change from all the auto tuned so called talent these days ;)

[auditionupdate]

Awesome Job. Karl Messner + Etta James At Last = a great cover!

[drjrobb]

Wonderful. Love the softer sound of your arrangement.

[jonnyrawcon]

Love It, Karl. Reposted!!!



[mysterese2]

Etta would love it!

[Texasyl]

Very nice. You have the soft, soothing sound that does this song justice. I always liked that song, so peaceful, so contented, so happy. May she rest in peace. We have lost another beautiful voice. This is a nice tribute, thank you.