Clive Davis's full remarks on Whitney Houston at his pre-Grammy party

Compare Etta and Whitney. We celebrated one, we mourn the other. Not just because she died, but because of how she lived....

Houston's Death Came as Industry Gathered for Grammys.

Here are Clive Davis's remarks about Whitney Houston, delivered at his annual pre-Grammy Award party at the Beverly Hilton in Beverly Hills, Calif.:

"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: New york times.