Tragic star Whitney is making a big comeback

She died a penniless addict, but singer’s estate is booming

- By Graeme Culliford

HER FRIENDS called her "the Queen of Music" and at the height of her career she signed the biggest recording deal in history, worth around £80million.

But by the time she died, aged just 48, Whitney Houston was virtually broke, her huge fortune blown on bad financial decisions and drugs.

Now, as fans get ready to celebrate what would have been her 60th birthday in August, the I Will Always Love You singer is making a surprise comeback.

Last week it was announced her estate is releasing a posthumous gospel album called I Go To The Rock, featuring six previously unheard songs. Whitney will also feature at the Bafta Awards tonight, where British actress Naomi Ackie has been nominated for playing her in the film I Wanna Dance With Somebody.

And we can reveal her estate has made £80million since her death, thanks in part to an agreement with music marketing company Primary Wave.