No word yet on a cause of death of troubled pop singer Whitney Houston. Houston – once America's pop darling -- had a Grammy Award-winning career that was felled by drugs, a tumultuous marriage and strange behavior. She died Saturday on the eve of the Awards she once dominated. She was 48.
The death was confirmed by Houston's publicist without elaboration. Police say Houston died in her Beverly Hilton Hotel room at 3:55 p.m..
Within hours of the news, the blogosphere was ablaze with comments.
Music mogul Russell Simmons writes: "deeply saddened by the death of Whitney Houston. May she rest in peace." Later he continues: "Whitney Houston was one of the greatest singers this world has ever heard. R.I.P. Whitney Houston, really can't believe this."
Democratic political strategist and CNN commentator Donna Brazile laments: "Deepest condolences to Whitney Houston's entire family, including her young daughter. "Weeping may endure for a night.." Peace out. I'm sad"
Talk show host Piers Morgan states he was shaken: "Stunned by Whitney Houston's death at just 48 -- one of the greatest voices ever heard #RIP. And "Still can't quite believe this – interviewed #Whitney's mentor CliveDavis only last night, talking about her incredible talent."
Seconds earlier Sharon Osbourne wrote: Clive Davis Grammy party..not going. Mark Burnett party..not going. Can't celebrate tonight when one of the greatest voices ever is dead.
Malcolm-Jamal Warner of the Cosby Show fame laments: "Once again, cherish your day. R.I.P. Whitney."
Writes Chris Cumo: "Sad when someone, who gives so much joy to so many, can not find any joy in themselves. RIP Whitney Houston."
From singer Will.i.am: "I'm so sad...whitney houston was so kind, sweet, wonderful, amazing, talented, and a true gift to the world.."
Billy Ray Cyrus paraphrased a Houston song in his tribute: "R. I. P. Whitney Houston. I will always love you and your music and talents will live on forever."
Ever a man of few words, this from Isaiah Mustafa: I will always love you.
In the 80s Houston was one of the world's best selling artists, with a string of hits earning her recognition from the Guiness Book of World Records as the most awarded female recording artist of all time. Houston's stunning career marked a dramatic fall from grace after marrying industry bad boy, Bobby Brown. Their rocky marriage lasted 15 years. They had one daughter, Bobbi Kristina.
In 1992, Houston branched onto the big screen when she starred opposite Kevin Costner in The Bodyguard, a film that won international acclaim and netted the singer three Grammys. She was awarded Best Pop Female Performance and Song of the Year for "I Will Always Love You," The film's soundtrack also won Album of The Year.
Her next film explored the relationships between black men and women. Based on the Terry McMillan novel, Waiting to Exhale, was another hit that also marked Forest Whitaker's big screen director's debut.
The Preacher's Wife with Denzel Washington came next, followed by the TV special Cinderella, which also starred the youngful singer, Brandi.
Do you have a favorite Whitney Houston tune? Discuss your favorites or share your condolenses below. Watch the Trailer for The Bodyguard Here.
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