A tribute concert to Aretha Franklin is reportedly being planned for the end of this year, only days after it was reported that the soul icon is ‘critically ill’ and receiving hospice care at her Detroit home.
According to Billboard, legendary producer Clive Davis is spearheading the organisation of a tribute concert at New York’s Madison Square Garden. He is known for his enduring work with Franklin, having first signed her to his Arista Records label in 1980.
The show will reportedly be titled ‘Clive Davis Presents: A Tribute to Aretha Franklin’ and is set to take place in the Big Apple on November 14.
Although rumoured performers are yet to emerge, some of music’s biggest names have been sending their well-wishes to Franklin – including Stevie Wonder and Beyonce.
On Monday, it was reported that the 76-year-old singer was seriously ill, with close sources claiming that her family were preparing to say goodbye as she receives hospice care at home – prompting a huge stream of messages of well-wishers across the world.
Earlier today, it was reported that Franklin’s family have confirmed that she is “gravely ill”.
Aretha’s publicist Gwendolyn Quinn told People Magazine: “Aretha Franklin has been the Matriarch of the Franklin family since the passing of all of her siblings. The love she has for her family is above reproach and was evident in the warm smiles she was able to share with her nephew during his very brief visit two weeks ago.
“She is seriously ill and surrounded by family members who appreciate the outpouring of love and support they have received.”