Legendary blues vocalist and Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee Etta James is reportedly coping with a number of health issues at the Riverside Community Hospital in southern California. The 72 year old singer, whose influential career spans half a decade and several genres -including jazz, blues, and soul - is battling a blood infection caused by MRSA and speech problems following treatment for an addiction to pain medication, according to James' son, Donto.

Etta James also suffers from Alzheimer's disease, and apparently faces an ongoing battle with health issues, but is expected to be discharged from hospital after a short stay.

James has been honored with four Grammy awards throughout her career, and has been inducted twice into the Grammy Hall of Fame. She has been honored numerous times, most recently being recognized as the Female Blues Artist of the Year by The Blues Foundation in 2009.