Etta James' son Donto has opened up about his mother's final moments, revealing the soul legend died in his arms.

The music icon passed away on Friday, just five days before her 74th birthday, after suffering complications from leukemia.

Stars including Beyonce, Mariah Carey, P!nk and will.i.am have all rushed to pay tribute to the singer and now her son Donto James has described how she spent her last minutes saying goodbye to him and her other son Sametto.

Speaking to People.com on Friday, he said, "It's been quite a day, but I'm very grateful. She basically passed in my arms, and I was able to share everything I needed to say to her, from praying to listing her accomplishments as a mother.

"I asked her if she heard what I said, and she'd flutter her eyes and look at me very quickly. And she had been nonreactive before that.

"It was a true gift to be with her when it happened. I wouldn't want it any other way than for her to go in our arms.

"I told her that I loved her. I said, 'You were a wonderful mother, you did a wonderful job, your seven grandchildren love you, and they will be OK.'

"For sure, the world lost a legend today. I am very proud of her, and very thankful."