Aretha Franklin, the queen of soul, is 'gravely ill' and surrounded by her loved ones, sources say. Her family confirmed the news and said she is asking for prayers.
The 76-year-old has been experiencing health problems for years. Franklin announced her retirement last year following the release of her album. She most recently performed last November for the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
Evrod Cassimy, a family friend of the Franklins, announced the news in a tweet: "BREAKING NEWS: I am so saddened to report that the Queen of Soul and my good friend, Aretha Franklin is gravely ill. I spoke with her family members this morning. She is asking for your prayers at this time. I’ll have more details as I’m allowed to release."