John described Aretha as "the greatest vocalist I've ever known" after she passed away in her Detroit home today.
Elton added his own tribute on Instagram describing her loss as a "real blow for anyone who loves music."
He added: "Her voice was unique, her piano playing underrated – she was one of my favourite pianists. "
The singer also recalled Aretha's last-ever performance – for his AIDS Foundation back in 2017.
Elton said that although she was "obviously unwell" she "raised the roof."
He wrote: "She sang and played magnificently, and we all wept. We were witnessing the greatest soul artist of all time. I adored her and worshipped her talent. God bless her. My condolences to all her family and friends."
The mum-of-four died surrounded by loved ones in the town where she was born.
Earlier in the evening, family released a statement saying she was gravely ill at her home.
Her loss prompted an outpouring of tributes from celebrities who were touched by the singer's music.
Paul McCartney tweeted that the star "will be missed but the memory of her greatness as a musician and a fine human being will live with us forever."
Diana Ross said she was "sitting in prayer for the wonderful golden spirit Aretha Franklin."
Lenny Kravitz posted a snapshot of him together with the star and said: "how blessed we were to hear the best that God had to offer in her voice. RESPECT!"
Barbra Streisand said it is "difficult to conceive of a world without her, adding: "Not only was she a uniquely brilliant singer, but her commitment to civil rights made an indelible impact on the world."
Hugh Jackman described singing with the soul legend as "one of the highlights of my career."
He tweeted: "It was an out of body experience for me. One of greatest singers of all time. You will be missed by all."
Kate Hudson said she was crying at the news, posting an Instagram tribute with the caption: "Oh queen oh queen how I cry to see you go.
"Like so many others I share the sadness of this loss. A true inspiration, a constant listen in my youth.
"To discover the effortlessness of her gift, to take it in and experience the tones that shaped my love for singing. Her instrument like no other. Magic, pure magic. Thank you Aretha."
Christina Aguilera told fans Aretha was a "timeless inspiration" to her and thanked her for "the gift of your voice, music and unshakeable soul" in a poignant post.
Meanwhile Liam Gallagher was quick to tweet his tribute, posting: "RIP Aretha. What a voice."
Director Edgar Wright shared video of her performing on Twitter with the caption alongside it simply reading "Legend."
Alan Carr added to the tributes, writing: "The news we were all dreading. The Queen is dead."
Calling her the Queen Of soul, Sinitta added: "Huge Love and #Respect to Aretha Franklin."
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