Violet Ikonomova
Longtime Aretha Franklin choreographer Lisa McCall (back) created a routine in honor of the legendary songstress.
Dozens of artists honored the life and legacy of Aretha Franklin Thursday night with a genre-spanning "People's Tribute" concert at Chene Park.
It was the hottest ticket in town during a week marked by viewings and events for the late songstress. Seats at the free show were all spoken for within 10 minutes of becoming available Monday.
For almost five hours, the exuberant crowd danced and sang along to gospel, jazz and blues, R&B, and a medley of Aretha hits perormed by Detroit artists. Celebrities including Tyler Perry and gospel singer Kurt Carr headlined the event. Patti LaBelle joined via a pre-recorded video in which she sang "You Are My Friend" beside a screen featuring a photo montage of Franklin.
Franklin's former collaborators also performed. Choreographer Lisa McCall created a dance specifically for the event and Franklin's longtime bassist, Ralphe Armstrong, joined in a jazz and blues tribute.
Franklin's star-studded funeral will be held today at Greater Grace Temple — a more six hour affair that will be attended by a former president and A-listers including Stevie Wonder and LeBron James.
Check out some of the speeches and performances from last night:
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