The ‘Look What You Made Me Do’ hitmaker took to the stage in Aretha’s hometown this week as part of her ‘Reputation Tour’, and paid tribute to the late icon – who passed away on August 16 at the age of 76 – whom she dubbed as an “irreplaceable force”.
Speaking before holding the moment of silence, the 28-year-old singer said: “Last week we lost an irreplaceable force. Aretha Franklin did so much for music, she did so much for women’s rights, she did so much for civil rights.
“She was one of those people where no matter what you said, no matter what glowing positive thing you said about her, it would be an understatement. Words could never, ever describe how many things she did in her lifetime that made our world a better place. And this is her home.
“I would like it if we could have a moment of silence so that every single one of us could reflect on our love and respect for her and everything that she did in her life. So if we could please cut the lights, we’ll have a moment of silence for Aretha.”
When the lights came back up, the ‘Blank Space’ singer added: “We love you Aretha.”
Aretha passed away earlier this month after a battle with cancer which had left her “gravely ill”.
Her family said in a statement at the time: “In one of the darkest moments of our lives, we are not able to find the appropriate words to express the pain in our heart. We have lost the matriarch and rock of our family. The love she had for her children, grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and cousins knew no bounds.
“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. As we grieve, we ask that you respect our privacy during this difficult time.”
The ‘Natural Woman’ hitmaker is set to be laid to rest on Friday (31.08.18) at Greater Grace Temple in Detroit, Michigan, where several of her family members – including her father, brother, and two sisters – are also buried.
Earlier this week, fans had the chance to bid farewell to the music icon during two public viewings at the Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History in Detroit, and a memorial service is taking place at at Chene Park Amphitheatre on Thursday (30.08.18).