While Beyonce may be a legend in her own right, she got to where she is by looking up to one woman: Whitney Houston. Just one day after celebrating the release of baby Blue Ivy's first photos, Beyonce is mourning the sudden, tragic loss of Houston. Bey is said to be devastated by the fall of her idol and released a statement expressing her grief.

"The loss of Whitney Houston is painful," Beyonce said. "I remember meeting Whitney for the first time when I was 15.  She was the ultimate legend. The ultimate woman.  Not only was she confident, poised, stunningly beautiful and intelligent, but she was sincere and kind.  She took the time to make everyone feel like they were very important to her." Beyonce, who has a reputation for being gracious and kind herself, clearly took after her hero well.

Beyonce continued her praises for Houston, not only as a person, but also as a pure vocal instrument. "I, like every singer, always wanted to be just like her," Bey revealed. "Her voice was perfect. Strong but soothing. Soulful and classic. Her vibrato, her cadence, her control."

"So many of my life's memories are attached to a Whitney Houston song," Beyonce said. " She is our queen and she opened doors and provided a blueprint for all of us.  God bless her."

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