According to various sources around the web, Whitney Houston‘s publicist has stated that the singer has passed away at 48. The singer is considered to have been one of the most popular recording artists and is, according to the Guinness World Records, the most awarded female act of all time. Her life was filled with career highs as well as personal lows, including many rumors of heavy drug use (which she admitted to) as well as marital issues. 

Regardless of her troubled life, Houston was a musical force that cannot be denied. Her loss is a tragedy and I extend my condolences to her family and friends.