Another legend has died far too young.   The beautiful and talented Whitney Houston passed away Saturday, February 11, 2012.

According to a live televised press conference by the Beverly Hills Police Department, police received an emergency call for assistance around 3:30 today from the Beverly Hilton Hotel, where Houston was a guest.  When emergency personnel arrived on scene just minutes after the call, CPR was already being performed on the star. At 3:55, Whitney Houston was pronounced dead at the hotel.   The cause of death is currently unknown and an investigation is underway.

Her death occurred just one day before music’s biggest night – the Grammy Awards.   Changes to the awards show are currently underway.   As the news continues to break, Houston was reportedly in town to attend music mogul Clive Davis’ pre-Grammy party where she was expected to perform.  Stunned fans, friends and members in the entertainment industry are leaving heartfelt messages on social media.

Whitney Houston

Houston was born into a musical family in 1963.  Her mother, Cissy Houston, is a famous gospel singer and her cousin is Dionne Warwick.  Her godmother is Aretha Franklin.  Whitney began her music career at a young age singing in the church.  Besides a successful modeling career, she went on to sing backup for some famous names before she hit it big on her own.   Her first album sold 25 million copies worldwide.  She went on to win a slew of awards including several Emmys and six Grammys.  She holds the record for the most American Music Awards. She was also named one of the 50 Most Beautiful People in the World by People Magazine in 1991.

Besides her gorgeous looks and fabulous voice, Houston also acted in films.  Her role alongside Kevin Costner in “The Bodyguard” made her rendition of Dolly Parton’s “I Will Always Love You” a huge smash that won Record of the Year and Album of the Year for the movie’s soundtrack.  Other films followed including “Waiting to Exhale” and “The Preacher’s Wife.”

Houston went on to marry singer Bobby Brown.  They shared one daughter together, Bobbi Kristina, and eventually divorced after a very public, tumultuous relationship.  Despite all the fame and fortune, Houston struggled for years with substance abuse.  Fans were hopeful of a successful and full recovery and a comeback.   Whitney Houston leaves behind her mother, daughter and millions of adoring fans.  She was 48.

 Image courtesy of Asterio Tecson