Eva Longoria, Katy Perry, Quincy Jones and Kelly Osbourne were among the first celebrities to pay tribute to Whitney Houston hours after the singer died in Los Angeles.
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The stars took to social networking site Twitter to pay their respects, while Jones, who was due to attend Clive Davis'annual pre-Grammy Awards party at the Beverly Hilton Hotel, where Houston died, released a statement to the media.
He wrote: "I am absolutely heartbroken at the news of Whitney's passing... She was a true original and a talent beyond compare. I will miss her terribly."
Actress Longoria was among those who took to Twitter upon hearing the tragic news writing: "My heart is broken.... #ripWhitneyHouston."
Moviemaker Adam Shankman, who directed the singer's I'm Your Baby Tonight video added: "You taught me so much good.... miss you angel."
Kelly Osbourne also tweeted: "i truly hope you are in peace #WhitneyHouston i feel so honored to have known you! i love you RIP! [sic]"
She later tweeted: "not going to any pre grammy parties as i dont feel it is appropriate!"
Rapper Ludacris also paid his respects, tweeting, "R.I.P WHITNEY HOUSTON. ONE OF THE PUREST SOULS I'VE EVER MET IN MY LIFE," while Katy Perry recalled one of the late superstar's greatest hits when she wrote, "We will always love you Whitney, R.I.P."
Michael Jackson's daughter Paris also paid her respects to the legendary singer on the social networking site saying: "R.I.P. Whitney Huston (sic), I've always idolized her and her amazing talent."
Christina Aguilera and Rihanna were also left devastated and shocked. The Beautiful singer tweeted: "We have lost another legend. Love and prayers to Whitney's family. She will be missed."
Rihanna wrote: "No words! Just tears #DearWhitney."
Mariah Carey who duetted with Houston on the Prince Of Egypt theme tune When You Believe also paid tribute via Twitter: "Heartbroken and in tears over the shocking death of my friend, incomparable Ms. Whitney Houston."
Houston was pronounced dead at just before 4pm on Saturday at the Beverly Hilton after emergency service officials, called to the hotel, failed to resuscitate her. The singer's death is being investigated.
