News February 14, 2012
'Extra' Exclusive! Smokey Robinson 'Devastated' over Houston's Death
"Extra's" Renee Bargh sat down with Motown great Smokey Robinson, who learned of Whitney Houston's death on Saturday from his daughter. "My daughter was crying profusely," Robinson recalled.
Smokey, who has known Whitney since she was just 8, said, "I spoke to her mother [Cissy] today. She, of course, is devastated as I am."
The R&B singer recalled, "I knew her mom; I knew her family. She was a pretty little girl."
Robinson acknowledged it was difficult seeing Houston battle her addiction over the years, and revealed the songstress remained in denial. "I could not reach her." They last spoke a year ago, and Smokey was hopeful Whitney might stay sober, and said, "She was looking so good, and she was sounding so good, and feeling good, and I was very happy."
He continued, "She would want people to remember her like I am going to remember her. I'm going to remember the positive things. When she opened her mouth, blessings came out through her voice, her music, her incredible, astounding vocal ability that brought joy to people all over the world."
