REACTION:A POSTMORTEM is due to be carried out today on the body of singer Amy Winehouse, who was found dead on Saturday afternoon at her north London home.
So far, the Metropolitan Police says the cause of death of the 27-year-old Winehouse is “unexplained”, but unconfirmed reports suggest she bought drugs in the days before she died.
In a brief statement, which sought privacy to cope with the loss of “a wonderful daughter, sister, niece”, her family said: “She leaves a gaping hole in our lives. We are coming together to remember her and we would appreciate some privacy and space at this terrible time.”
Film star and friend Russell Brand, writing on his website, blamed the media for being more interested in “tragedy than talent”.
“We have lost a beautiful and talented woman to this disease ,” he wrote. “Not all addicts have Amy’s incredible talent. Or Kurt’s [Cobain] or Jimi’s [Hendrix] or Janis’s [Joplin], some people just get the affliction. All we can do is adapt the way we view this condition, not as a crime or a romantic affectation but as a disease that will kill.”
Hundreds of fans began to congregate outside her home on Saturday evening, leaving floral tributes and notes. One said: “Too fragile, too beautiful, too big a talent for this world.” Another read: “To an exquisite singer with a beautiful voice.”
Police cordoned off part of the road, leading some fans to leave their tributes there in a growing pile, while others went to the Hawley Arms pub in Camden – a one-time haunt of the singer. “She was a special person with a good soul and this should not have happened,” said the pub’s management, in its own tribute.
Her management company, Metropolis Music, which had struggled to help her cope with her drug and alcohol habits, said: “We are trying to come to terms with the death of a dear friend and colleague, the most amazing artist and talent.
“We will always remember Amy as a vibrant, funny, caring young woman who made everyone around her feel welcome. We have lost a very special person, part of our family,” the company went on.
During a concert in Scotland, Westlife singer Mark Feehily told fans: “It’s been a funny old day. I’m sure you’ve all heard the sad news about Amy Winehouse. I am a massive fan of hers; she has done so much for music in this country. Amy Winehouse, we love you so much – tonight is for you.”