Whitney Houston was a true music icon, and her influence reached into country music. Most notably, Houston's signature song, "I Will Always Love You," was written by Dolly Parton as a tribute to her former duet partner Porter Wagoner . Houston recorded the song for her 1992 film The Bodyguard and it became one of the biggest pop hits of all time.
Dolly released a statement after learning of Houston's death Saturday:
"Mine is only one of the millions of hearts broken over the death of Whitney Houston. I will always be grateful and in awe of the wonderful performance she did on my song and I can truly say from the bottom of my heart, 'Whitney, I will always love you. You will be missed.'"
Other country stars expressed their shock and condolences via Twitter after learning of Houston's death Saturday.
Lady Antebellum
's
Hillary Scott
: "We are so heartbroken to hear of the loss of Whitney Houston. One of the best voices EVER! Praying God's comfort for her family."
Reba
: "Rest in peace, Whitney."
Rascal Flatts
'
Jay DeMarcus
: "Whitney Houston has died!!! Oh my goodness, what a loss.... Sad."
LeAnn Rimes
: "Whitney Houston was the first cd I ever bought. She had a God given gift. Hopefully, she's singing with angels now."
Chris Young
: "RIP Whitney Houston. Truly one of the best vocalists of all time/all genres. #sadday "
Sara Evans
: "What a tragedy losing Whitney Houston. One of my all time idols. So very sad for her family. I will be praying for them. :("
Copyright 2012 ABC News Radio
