Beyonce Nabs Etta James Role In Upcoming Movie

Beyoncé will be taking on another iconic role in her next big film, portraying legendary songstress Etta James in Cadillac Records.

According to Blackvoices.com, Beyoncé will join Cedric the Entertainer, Jeffrey Wright, Columbus Short, Tammy Blanchard, Emmanuelle Chriqui and Oscar winner Adrien Brody in the period piece, set in 1950's Chicago. Cadillac Records explores the rise and fall of Chess Records, the label responsible for kicking off the careers of Chuck Berry, Etta James and Muddy Waters.

Brody will play Leonard Chess, who launched the label from the back of his Cadillac. The role was vacated by Matt Dillon, who was forced to give up the part because of a scheduling conflict. Cedric the Entertainer will play Willie Dixon, songwriter for many Chess Records hits, including "Hoochie Coochie Man." Jeffrey Wright will portray Muddy Waters.

The revelation of Beyoncé's latest film role comes on the heels of the recent news that she will be performing at the 50th Annual Grammy's; a decision that initially drew criticism from some, who felt the multi-platinum singer and SAG actress was being disloyal to the current WGA writer strike.

While the WGA has since decided not to picket the Grammy's, leaving Beyoncé and the ceremony in the clear, at the time of her announcement the union was still considering a picket on the show.