Troubled singer Whitney Houston has died at the age of 48, her publicist confirmed this evening. The Beverly Hills Police Department responded to the 4th floor of the Beverly Hilton Hotel (the site of Clive Davis’ pre-Grammys party) where their attempts to revive Houston were unsuccessful. She was pronounced dead at 3:55 p.m this afternoon.
Houston once reigned at the top of the charts but years of drug use took its toll on the Grammy-winning singer. Her attempted comeback tour in 2010 left fans disappointed over the condition of her voice and wondering whether she was still abusing drugs.
The Recording Academy issued this statement in response to Houston’s death:
Six-time GRAMMY® winner Whitney Houston was one of the world’s greatest pop singers of all time who leaves behind a robust musical soundtrack spanning the past three decades. Her powerful voice graced many memorable and award-winning songs. A light has been dimmed in our music community today, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family, friends, fans and all who have been touched by her beautiful voice.
Neil Portnow
President/CEO
The Recording Academy®”
Celebrities took to Twitter to express their feelings about Houston’s passing:
Mariah Carey: “Heartbroken and in tears over the shocking death of my friend, the incomparable Ms. Whitney Houston.”
Marc Anthony: “I am in utter shock over the loss of my friend and colleague Whitney Houston. We should all feel blessed to have experienced the voice of an angel. I will always cherish the times I got to share the stage with you. My thoughts and prayers to Bobbi, Kristina, and family.”
Rihanna: “No words! Just tears #DearWhitney”
Diddy: “”Whitney Houston!!! OMG!! I really can’t believe this.. This is one of the saddest days ever..”
Katy Perry: “So devastating. We will always love you Whitney, R.I.P.”
Simon Cowell: “I am so sad to hear about Whitney. We have lost one of the greatest singers of all time.”
Paula Abdul: “I am devastated. I am absolutely devastated at the news about Whitney Houston. Such a tragic, tragic loss.”
Diane Warren: “My thoughts and prayers for Whitneys’ family. The voice of our time is now silent.”
Justin Bieber: “ust heard the news. so crazy. One of the GREATEST VOICES EVER just passed. RIP Whitney Houston. My prayers go out to her friends and family”
Jennifer Lopez: “Such a loss. One of the greatest voices of our time. Sending out prayers to her family…”
Christina Aguilera: “Whitney Houston is an icon!!! Your legacy will live!! <3"
Our thoughts are with Whitney Houston's family at this difficult time.
--Posted on Feb 11, 2012 by Rebecca Murray
