Rihanna, Mariah Carey, Aretha Franklin Pay Tribute To Whitney Houston

A host of musicians have paid tribute to singer Whitney Houston following her sudden death yesterday (February 12)

The singer's  publicist made the announcement of her passing in the early hours of this morning (February 12).

It is still unclear how Houston died but Police have confirmed the star was found on the fourth floor of the Beverly Hilton hotel in Los Angeles.

Mariah Carey, who dueted with Houston on the 1998 track 'When You Believe', said over Twitter: "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."

While, Aretha Franklin, who was Houston's Godmother said: ''I just can't talk about it now. It's so stunning and unbelievable. I couldn't believe what I was reading coming across the TV screen. My heart goes out to Cissy, her daughter Bobbi Kris, her family and Bobby.''

Rihanna said: "No words! Just tears #DearWhitney," while Katy Perry told fans over Twitter: "So devastating. We will always love you Whitney, R.I.P."

Nicki Minaj also said: "Jesus Christ, not Whitney Houston. Greatest of all time."

Elton John, who was last night performing at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, told fans: "This is a sad day today, all I want to talk about is her music. She was the most beautiful woman I think I ever saw… Thank you for giving us your talent, and one of the most beautiful voices I've ever heard."

No further information about Whitney Houston's death has been released.