Musical legend Whitney Houston has been found dead in a Los Angeles hotel room, aged just 48.    

Houston, who was famed for her incredible voice and award winning hits such as 'I will always love you' and 'Saving all my love' leaves behind her 18 year old daughter with ex-husband Bobby Brown.

Emergency services were called to her hotel at 3:43 yesterday afternoon and arrived minutes later to find her security staff trying to revive her. Unfortunately all attempts to resuscitate her and she was declared dead at 3:55pm. 

Throughout her long career, Whitney won countless awards for her music, becoming the golden girl of the music industry during the 80's and 90's. Her success expanded beyond music and she also starred in a number of films, including the cult hit 'The Bodyguard' with Kevin Costner.

However with a hugely successful career came a turbulent home life. Houston had a tempestuous relationship with husband of 14 years, Bobby Brown, which included accusations of domestic violence. Many would accuse Brown of being a significant factor in her personal and professional demise, with Houston admitting she frequently tool cocaine and marijuana during their time together, which lead to her being admitted to rehabilitation centres on several occasions. Brown was apparently seen crying and blowing kisses to the sky last night, declaring 'I love you Whitney' at the end of his performance with band New Edition last night.

Things seemed to be turning around for Whitney in 2009 when, two years divorced from Brown, she launched a comeback tour. However following an erratic performance on the X factor, concerns arose that she was not yet stable enough for such a commitment.

Speaking of the performance, pop mogul Simon Cowell said today, 'She probably wasn't altogether there but it was still Whitney Houston and you knew you were in the presence of a legend. I will never forget that day.'

He had lead the stream of celebrity tributes to the star, which have included Rihanna, Mariah Carey and Aretha Franklin. Jennifer Hudson has been rumoured to perform a tribute to Whitney at the Grammy Awards this coming Sunday night.

The cause of her death is still as yet unknown.

Whatever the cause, the world has undoubtably lost another incredible voice. She will certainly be difficult, if not impossible, to replace.