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Clive Davis on Whitney Houston: ‘She loved this night’

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This is the full text of Clive Davis’ remarks to the entertainment industry audience on his decision to go forward with his annual pre-Grammy Awards gala on Saturday night at the Beverly Hilton, a few hours after singer Whitney Houston died in her room at the hotel.

“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.

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‘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.

FULL COVERAGE: Whitney Houston

‘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.

PHOTOS: Stars react to Whitney Houston’s death

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‘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.’

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Appreciation: A voice for the ages tarnished by addictions

-- Randy Lewis

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