Quincy Jones has been left shocked and stunned by the death of Michael Jackson, calling the King of Pop "my little brother".
The legendary music producer was behind Jackson's biggest hit albums, Thriller, Off The Wall and BAD, and admits he's struggling to come to terms with his friend's death.
I've lost my little brother today and part of my soul has gone with him
Jackson was pronounced dead on Thursday (25Jun09) after falling into a deep coma following a cardiac arrest at his rented home in
Holmby Hills, California - and family, friends and fans are mourning the terrible news.
Jones says, "I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news... I just don't have the words.
"Divinity brought our souls together on The Wiz and allowed us to do what we were able to do in the 80s. To this day, the music that we created together on Off The Wall, Thriller and Bad is played in every corner of the world, and the reason for that is because he had it all - talent, grace, professionalism and dedication.
"He was the consummate entertainer and his contributions and legacy will be felt upon the world forever.
"I've lost my little brother today and part of my soul has gone with him."
Moviemaker John Landis, who directed Jackson's Thriller video, has also paid a brief tribute to the King of Pop.
Landis says, "He had a troubled and complicated life and, despite his gift, he remains a tragic figure... I will always have great affection for him."
And Jamie Foxx has also remembered the star, who was in the middle of a TV interview when the news of Jackson's death was first reported.
He tells Extra, "I hope he's remembered as a great musician, and not for the circus sideshow that has become his life over the last several years."
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