Fit for a Queen: Gladys Knight, Ledisi Among Singers Tapped to Honor Aretha Franklin at the American Music Awards

The Aretha Franklin tribute at this year’s American Music Awards will pay tribute to the Queen of Soul’s gospel roots.

According to the AP, Dick clark productions will tap Gladys Knight and Ledisi to take on the iconic singer’s “Amazing Grace” album on Oct. 9, as will Mary Mary, Donnie McClurkin, and CeCe Winans. Rickey Minor will serve as musical director for the live tribute.

Mercifully, the hand of fellowship was not extended to Madonna, who was left of the bill (Grammys—don’t you do it, either.)

As the AP notes, Franklin—who died last month—was no stranger to the AMAs, winning six awards and hosting the show twice (once in 1976, and again in 1983).

Also slated to perform at the award ceremony will be Mariah Carey (whom I sincerely hope takes her tea and sings the F out of “GTFO,” because it is an entire 2018 mood) and Cardi B, who will be joined by Bad Bunny and J Balvin to perform “I Like It.”