Kaylah Walton
Cissy Houston, a celebrated gospel singer and mother of the legendary Whitney Houston, has died at the age of 91. She passed away at her home in New Jersey, surrounded by her family, after a battle with Alzheimer’s disease, as her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, confirmed.
“Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family,” Pat expressed in an emotional statement, remarking that Cissy’s impact on music and culture was indeed “unmatched.” She characterized Cissy as “a strong and towering figure” and “a woman of deep faith and conviction,” highlighting her remarkable legacy that spanned over seventy years in the music world.
Cissy’s remarkable journey in music began in 1938 when she was part of her family’s gospel group, The Drinkard Four, eventually joining the famous vocal ensemble The Sweet Inspirations.
Cissy Houston shared the stage with legends
The Sweet Inspirations, celebrated for their rich harmonies, provided backing for iconic musicians like Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin. Cissy’s distinctive voice can also be heard in songs like Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” and Jimi Hendrix’s “Burning of the Midnight Lamp.”
In 1969, Cissy transitioned to a successful solo career, after her final performance with The Sweet Inspirations. Throughout her lifetime, she recorded over 600 songs in various styles, collaborating with other legendary artists such as Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway, and Luther Vandross. She even performed alongside her daughter, Whitney Houston.
In recognition of her work, Cissy received two Grammy Awards for her gospel albums Face to Face and He Leadeth Me in 1997 and 1998. She also published three books, including Remembering Whitney: A Mother’s Story of Life, Loss, and The Night the Music Stopped.
A legacy rooted in faith and music
Cissy Houston, the youngest of eight siblings, had a life deeply enriched by her faith and family connections. “We appreciate your generous support and the love shown during this deeply difficult period,” Pat Houston conveyed on behalf of the family, urging for privacy as they grieve.
Cissy Houston’s profound impact on gospel and popular music will continue to resonate, leaving a legacy that has influenced numerous artists.
