Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest reigning monarch, died Thursday at the age of 96. Many artists from all over the world expressed their condolences and honored the memory of the deceased.

Below is the reaction of musicians, actors and other famous artists to the news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

* Helen Mirren, a British actress who played Queen Elizabeth on the big screen: “I mourn with all my country over the death of a great queen. I am proud to call myself (a) Elizabethan. If there was a definition of royalty, Elizabeth of Windsor embodied it.”

* Elton John, British singer-songwriter: “Together with the entire nation, I am deeply saddened by the news of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. She was an inspiration and led the country through some of the most important and dark times in our history with grace, dignity and sincere love. “Queen Elizabeth has been a huge part of my life from childhood to this day (including yesterday) and I will miss her very much.”

* Daniel Craig, an English actor who became famous for playing James Bond: “Like many others, I was deeply saddened to hear this news, and my thoughts go out to the royal family and all those who loved them. She leaves behind an incomparable legacy, and her loss will be felt.”

* Paul McCartney, Beatles legend: “God bless Queen Elizabeth II. May he rest in peace. Long live the king!”

* Ozzy Osbourne, English singer: “I mourn, like my whole country, because of the death of our great queen. It is with a heavy heart that I declare that the thought of an England without Queen Elizabeth II is disastrous.”

* Tom Jones, Welsh singer: “Queen Elizabeth II has been a constant presence and inspiration throughout my life. She was a calm force in difficult times, her selflessness was impeccable and her devotion to duty unsurpassed. I am honored and blessed to live during her reign.”

* Andrew Lloyd Webber, British composer: “All my life the Queen has been an unshakable anchor not only of Britain and our beloved Commonwealth, but also a source of inspiration for the whole world.” “He will be remembered as a selfless beacon of love, understanding and respect for our fellowmen, regardless of race or creed.”

* Mick Jagger, rock star: “All my life, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has been there. As a child, I remember watching the highlights of her wedding on TV. I remember her as a beautiful girl (I remember her) and as the nation’s much loved grandmother.”

* Kylie Minogue, Australian singer: “At the events that I had the honor to attend, in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II, her energy, compassion and aura had a unique brilliance. I was and still am delighted.”

* Andrea Bocelli, Italian tenor: “It has been a great honor for me to sing for Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth several times. I am deeply saddened by the news of her death. We have lost a special figure in modern history: an outstanding woman, a charismatic cornerstone of society.”

Source: RES-EMI