Statement from Mrs. Altheida Mayfield on the passing of Aretha Franklin

“We have lost the Queen of Soul but what a beautiful soul she was and is. I was with Curtis when he wrote and produced for Aretha enjoyed a warm and personal relationship with her while they worked in the studio, the two great talents, creating such beautiful works as the movie “Sparkle.”  She had a very vulnerable side and a beautiful heart, demonstrated so robustly when Curtis was severely injured, as she was one of the first to be there for him, personally and professionally.  That was Aretha, the beautiful soul of a lifetime.”    - Mrs. Altheida Mayfield