Farewell to a gospel legend: Remembering Cissy Houston

A remarkable journey comes to an end

Cissy Houston, the legendary gospel singer and mother of the late Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91. Known for her powerful voice and incredible career, Houston’s legacy will be cherished by fans and the music community alike. She left us on a Monday morning in her New Jersey home, surrounded by her loving family while under hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease.

An unparalleled contribution to music and culture

“Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family,” said Pat Houston, Cissy’s daughter-in-law. Cissy Houston’s contributions to popular music and culture are truly unparalleled. Her influence extended beyond her immediate family, shaping the sounds and careers of many great artists over her more than seven-decade-long career.

Early beginnings with The Sweet Inspirations

Houston started her illustrious career in 1938 as a member of the gospel group The Drinkard Four, formed with her siblings. However, it was her time with The Sweet Inspirations that brought her to the forefront of the music scene. The group, which included Doris Troy and Dee Dee Warwick, provided backup vocals for a stellar lineup of soul legends like Otis Redding, Lou Rawls, and Dionne Warwick.

Collaborations with music giants

One of the pivotal moments of her career was her work on Aretha Franklin’s classic “Ain’t No Way” in 1967. The Sweet Inspirations also lent their talents to Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” and The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s “Burning of the Midnight Lamp.” Houston’s last performance with the group came on the Las Vegas stage with Elvis Presley in 1969, marking a historic collaboration.

A flourishing solo career

After departing from The Sweet Inspirations, Cissy Houston pursued a solo career, becoming a highly sought-after session singer. Over her career, she recorded more than 600 songs spanning multiple genres. Her exceptional vocal talents were featured alongside artists like Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway, Luther Vandross, Beyoncé, Paul Simon, and her daughter, Whitney Houston. In 1971, her iconic voice graced Burt Bacharach’s solo album, featuring tracks such as “Mexican Divorce” and “One Less Bell to Answer.”

Grammy triumphs and literary contributions

Houston’s talent was widely recognized, earning her Grammy Awards for her albums Face to Face in 1997 and He Leadeth Me in 1998 in the best traditional soul gospel album category. Beyond her musical achievements, Houston also authored three insightful books: He Leadeth Me, How Sweet The Sound: My Life with God and Gospel, and Remembering Whitney: A Mother’s Story of Life, Loss and The Night The Music Stopped.

Legacy of faith and community

Houston’s influence extended into her community, where she served as the Minister of Sacred Music at New Hope Baptist Church. Known for her strong faith and dedication to family and ministry, she was a towering figure whose impact will be felt for generations.

Final moments and a heartfelt farewell

Houston spent her final moments surrounded by family, and her passing has left a significant void. “We are touched by your generous support and your outpouring of love during our profound time of grief,” shared her family. “We respectfully request our privacy during this difficult time.” As we bid farewell to this phenomenal talent, we are reminded of the countless lives her music touched and the lasting mark Cissy Houston left on the world.

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