Amy Winehouse death leaves ‘gaping hole’

Amy Winehouse had been troubled by drink and drugs problems throughout her career.

The troubled Back To Black artist cancelled all tour dates and engagements last month after a series of erratic public appearances.

Her relatives released a statement on Sunday: “Our family has been left bereft by the loss of Amy, a wonderful daughter, sister, niece. 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.”

A spokesman for the soul star said: “Everyone involved with Amy is shocked and devastated. Our thoughts are with her family and friends.

A section of the road where the singer lived is cordoned off, while fans and residents gather at the police tapes, some laying flowers.

‘Waste of a great talent’

Producer Mark Ronson, who has worked closely with Winehouse, said in a statement: “She was my musical soulmate and like a sister to me.

“This is one of the saddest days of my life.”

As well as flocking to her home, fans also paid tribute at the Hawley Arms pub in Camden, once a favourite haunt of the pop star.

The pub said in a statement: “We are shocked and deeply saddened by the news of Amy’s death. Apart from her extraordinary musical talent, she was a special person with a good soul and this should not have happened.

“We feel privileged to have known her and we will sorely miss her.”

Many others took to Twitter to express their shock and sadness after the singer was found dead at her north London flat.

At only 27 what a terrible waste of a great talent. Sarah Brown

Sarah Brown, the wife of former prime minister Gordon Brown, wrote: “Just heard the sad news that Amy Winehouse has died.

“At only 27 what a terrible waste of a great talent. Sincere condolences to her family.”

Singer and actress Kelly Osbourne wrote: “i cant even breath right now im crying so hard i just lost 1 of my best friends. i love you forever Amy & will never forget the real you!”

Television presenter Piers Morgan said on the website: “Such desperately sad news re Amy Winehouse.

“Supreme talent, terrible self-destructive addictive personality.”

Fellow singer LeAnn Rimes wrote: “RIP Amy Winehouse. So sad to see such a talent gone and her life end in tragedy. This makes me terribly sad.”

Musician Professor Green added: “I really hope she’s at peace now. I don’t wanna hear any chat about it’s her own fault, addiction is a powerful demon.