The Clive Davis pre-grammy party went on last night, as planned, despite the sudden death of Whitney Houston just hours before in the same hotel.
Davis, who guided Whitney throughout her career, came onstage at 9:38 p.m. PT
“I don’t have to mask my emotions. I do have a very heavy heart. I am personally devastated. She was so looking forward to tonight,” he said. (She was not scheduled to perform, only attend.)
“My heart goes out to her daughter, Bobbi Kristina, and her mother, Cissy.” Davis talked about the partygoers as Houston’s extended family. “Whitney was a beautiful person and she had a talent beyond compare. She graced this stage with her regal talent so many times. So, simply put, Whitney would have wanted the music to go on.”
He dedicated the evening to Houston and said the gala went on with the blessing of her family. “Now, ladies and gentlemen, let the music begin.”
Adam Lambert, Matthew Morrison and Darren Criss attended the star studded event that featured performances from Tony Bennett, The Kinks, Jesse J, Alicia Keyes and more, performed.
Carrie Underwood, according to accounts, told her fan club this morning that she decided not to attend the event in light of Whitney’s passing.
Sources: USA Today, Rolling Stone, Billboard
Clive’s Speech
Adam Lambert Red Carpet Interview
Darren Criss Red Carpet Interview
