LOS ANGELES, June 26, 2009 - Pop diva Madonna revealed she was left in tears over the death of Michael Jackson on Thursday, saying the music world had lost "one of the greats."

In a statement to celebrity website People.com, the veteran singing star said: "I can't stop crying over the sad news.

"I have always admired Michael Jackson. The world has lost one of the greats, but his music will live on forever! My heart goes out to his three children and other members of his family. God bless."

Jackson died Thursday after suffering a cardiac arrest at his home in Los Angeles, sending shockwaves rippling around the entertainment world.