Legendary producer and guiding force in the career of the late Michael Jackson, Quincy Jones, has spoken out on the singer's tragic death Thursday afternoon.

"I am absolutely devastated at this tragic and unexpected news.  For Michael to be taken away from us so suddenly at such a young age, I just don't have the words," Jones said in a statement obtained by RadarOnline.com.

"Divinity brought our souls together on The Wiz and allowed us to do what we were able to throughout the 80's.  To this day, the music 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.  I¹ve lost my little brother today, and part of my soul has gone with him.²

Likewise, Jackson's former attorney Mark Geragos released the following to RadarOnline.com:

"I'm deeply saddened by the loss of Michael Jackson. What a horrible, horrible tragedy. My heart goes out to Katherine, Joe, Jermaine, Randy,  LaToya, Grace and the kids."

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