Renowned gospel singer and two-time Grammy winner Cissy Houston has passed away at the age of 91. She was known for her remarkable contributions to popular music and culture, working alongside icons such as Aretha Franklin and Elvis Presley.
Cissy Houston, who had been under hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease, died peacefully in her New Jersey home surrounded by her loving family. Her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, expressed deep sorrow at the loss of the matriarch of their family and praised Cissy’s incredible career spanning over seven decades.
Starting her musical journey as a church performer, Houston rose to fame in the 1960s as a member of The Sweet Inspirations, a renowned backing group that worked with various soul singers. She collaborated with artists such as Van Morrison, Dusty Springfield, and Dionne Warwick, showcasing her powerful vocals and versatility.
Aside from her success with The Sweet Inspirations, Houston embarked on a successful solo career, recording over 600 songs across different genres. Her influence extended beyond her own music, as she lent her voice to tracks for artists like Chaka Khan, Luther Vandross, and even her daughter, Whitney Houston.
Cissy Houston’s legacy also included several solo albums, including the Grammy-winning gospel records “Face to Face” and “He Leadeth Me.” She continued to inspire and uplift audiences through her music, leaving a lasting impact on the industry.
Throughout her career, Houston maintained a strong presence in her local community, leading the Youth Inspirational Choir at Newark’s New Hope Baptist Church. This connection to her roots underscored her deep faith and commitment to both her family and her community.
Despite discouraging her daughter, Whitney Houston, from pursuing a career in show business, Cissy and Whitney often collaborated on stage, television, and film projects. Their bond was evident in their music, with iconic performances together that touched the hearts of many fans.
