American singer and actress Whitney Houston has died at the age of 48, her publicist Kristen Foster has said.
The cause and the location of her death were unclear, Ms Foster told the Associated Press news agency.
Regarded as one of the most celebrated female acts of all time, she also enjoyed success acting in films such as The Bodyguard and Waiting to Exhale.
Her career was at times overshadowed by drug use and her turbulent marriage to singer Bobby Brown.
We are all heartstricken on hearing of your passing. I grew up with your music , you made an impact on my life and for that you will always be remembered. Your loved ones are all in our hearts and prayers in this trying time. May you rest in peace. Thank you for leaving behind your beautiful music that always keep you close to our hearts ♥ We will all miss you dearly.