The passing of music icon Aretha Franklin has a special meaning for the Music Director at the Colosseum at Caesars Windsor.
Franklin passed away in her Detroit home at the age of 76 Thursday morning after losing her battle with pancreatic cancer. The first female inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame was born in Memphis, Tenn. in 1942 and was the fourth of five children. After her parents split when she was just six years old her mother died from a heart attack when she was 10. Her father became a popular preacher and she honed her powerful voice in front of her father’s congregation.
Tim Trombley grew up in Windsor with his mother Rosalie — the music director at CKLW known for her, "golden ear." Trombley says Franklin's music was always around him.
"Going back to my history with my mom at CKLW, I mean the radio station played all of her hits, my mother was able to meet her on several occasions I was able to see her perform as a young man on several occasions," he says.
The 18 time Grammy winner will never be equaled, he added.
"The Queen of Soul, the world has lost the Queen of Soul today. A true American cultural icon, had worldwide impact. Truly, truly one of the greatest vocalists in history," Trombley says.
Trombley tells AM800 News Franklin's concert at the Colosseum is one of the most memorable shows he's witnessed.
Aretha Franklin on stage at the Colosseum at Caesars Windsor, February 13, 2016 (by AM800's Patty Handysides)
"She walked out on stage in that mink coat, it was just the presence. Her presence on that stage, I mean the Colosseum everybody rose up in unison and it was just two hours of magic," he says.
Trombley says the mother of two was more than just an exceptional singer, she was an amazing pianist as well.
A statement release by her family asks for privacy while they grieve for a woman who wanted to be measured by her humanity before her musical talent.
"We have been deeply touched by the incredible outpouring of love and support we have received from close friends, supporters and fans all around the world. Thank you for your compassion and prayers. We have felt your love for Aretha and it brings us comfort to know that her legacy will live on," according to the statement.