Clive Davis honors Whitney Houston at pre-Grammy party

While the music world is still under shock over Whitney Houston’s tragic passing a few hours before the Grammy festivities, her mentor and producer Clive Davis has reacted to the sudden death of his former protege during his annual pre-Grammy party at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. Davis memorialized and celebrated the legacy of his late friend with the event th celebrities including Quincy Jones, Tony Bennett, Dr. Dre, Mary J. Blige and Jennifer Hudson, who is also set to perform a tribute to Houston at Sunday’s Grammys. Below you can read the emotional remarks at the beginning of tonight’s event.

“By now you have all learned of the unspeakably tragic news of our beloved Whitney’s passing. I don’t have to mask my emotion in front of a room full of so many dear friends. I am personally devastated by the loss of someone who has meant so much to me for so many years.

Whitney was so full of life. She was so looking forward to tonight even though she wasn’t scheduled to perform. She loved music and she loved this night that celebrates music.

My heart goes out to her daughter Bobbi Christina, to her mother Cissy, to all of her relatives and to so many of you here tonight, her extended family who loved and cherished her and her spirit.

Whitney was a beautiful person and a talent beyond compare. She graced this stage with her regal presence and gave so many memorable performances here over the years. Simply put, Whitney would have wanted the music to go on and her family asked that we carry on.

I ask that you join me in a moment of silence as we dedicate this evening to Whitney.”

Source: The New York Times