Kelly Rowland "Beyond Heartbroken" Over Whitney Houston's Death

12 February 2012, 04:03 | Updated: 12 February 2012, 04:16

The 'Keep It Between Us' singer has paid tribute to the American singer following news of her passing.

Kelly Rowland says she is "beyond heartbroken" after hearing news of Whitney Houston's death.

The 'I Will Always Love You' singer was pronounced dead yesterday (11^th February) after emergency services responded to a call at the Beverley Hilton Hotel in Los Angeles where she had been staying. 

Kelly has now paid tribute to Whitney, who was 48 year-old when she died, after revealing the 'Heartbreak Hotel' singer was something of a mentor to her when she started out in the music industry.

"I am beyond heartbroken," Kelly tweeted today (12^th February). "Whitney Houston was undoubtedly one of the greatest singers & performers of all time & such a huge influence on me. 

"She embraced me when I first started out with Destiny's Child, with love, with encouragement and with that powerhouse voice."

Kelly added: "My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to her daughter, her mother and to all of her loves ones."

The Los Angeles Police Department officially confirmed the death of Whitney Houston last night and says a full investigation has been launched, although there were no signs of criminal intent. 

Whitney Houston released six studio albums and over 50 singles over her almost three decades long music career and also notably starring the 1992 film The Bodyguard.

View a gallery of Whitney Houston's life in pictures here.