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Tributes Pour in for the Sudden Death of Whitney Houston

Whitney Houston, who ruled as pop music’s queen until she was ravaged by drug use, has died. She was only 48!

Publicist Kristen Foster confirmed on Saturday that the singer had died, but the cause and the location of her death were unclear.

CNN reports that Ray J, who was once involved in a relationship with Whitney, found her dead body in a room at the Beverly Hilton hotel.

Word of the 48-year-old singer’s death broke early Saturday evening as the industry gathered in Los Angeles for the official Pre-Grammy Gala hosted by her mentor Clive Davis, chief creative officer of Sony Music Worldwide.

Beverly Hills police Lt. Mark Rosen told KABC-TV that Houston was pronounced dead at 3:55 p.m. (local time) in her room on the fourth floor of the Beverly Hilton. Her body remained in the hotel and Beverly Hills detectives were investigating.

At her peak in the 1980s and ’90s, Houston the golden girl of the music industry and one of the world’s best-selling artists.

Shocked reactions from fans and celebrities began to pour in, especially on Twitter.

Mariah Carey wrote, “Heartbroken and in tears over the shocking death of my friend, the incomparable Ms. Whitney Houston. She will never be forgotten as one of the greatest voices to ever grace the earth. My heartfelt condolences to Whitney’s family and to all her millions of fans throughout the world.”

Rosie O’Donnell said, “Dear God … There is a grief that can’t be spoken #DEVASTATED.”

Christina Aguilera wrote to her nearly 1 million Twitter followers: “We have lost another legend. Love and prayers to Whitney’s family. She will be missed.”

Rihanna said, “No words! Just tears #DearWhitney” — and it was followed up with, “Feels so strange being at the Grammy rehearsal right now!!”

Ryan Seacrest, who was at Grammys rehearsal, said, “At Grammys rehearsal hearing Whitney Houston has passed away at 48. Everyone here is absolutely stunned.”

Jennifer Lopez, “Such a loss. One of the greatest voices of our time. Sending out prayers to her family… #R.I.P.Whitney.”

Eva Longoria, “My heart is broken….#ripWhitneyHouston”

Joan Rivers, “Whitney Houston. What a sad tragedy-the end of the life of an incredible talent. RIP to an amazing singer and legend.”