By Janet Howard | Photos and video courtesy Double XXposure Media 

Cissy Houston Passes Away at 91: Celebrated Gospel Star Who Nurtured Daughter Whitney’s Legendary Career

Cissy Houston, the legendary gospel singer and mother of the late Whitney Houston, passed away at 91. With a career that spanned decades, Cissy made her mark in the music industry and played a pivotal role in guiding her daughter to superstardom. She was known for her powerful voice and deep gospel roots; Cissy’s legacy will forever resonate in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. 

A statement revealed that the singer passed away on Monday, October 7, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. ET, surrounded by family while receiving hospice care. She had been living with Alzheimer’s disease. “Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family,” her daughter-in-law Pat Houston said. “Mother Cissy has been a strong and towering figure in our lives. A woman of deep faith and conviction who cared greatly about family, ministry, and community. Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts.”

Early Life and Musical Roots

Born on September 30, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey, Cissy Houston was raised in a deeply musical family. Her mother, Emily Drinkard, was a gospel singer, and her father, Nicholas Drinkard, was a record label executive. This rich musical environment instilled in her a love for music from an early age. Cissy’s unique blend of gospel, R&B, and pop, which she developed from her diverse musical upbringing, laid the foundation for her illustrious career.

A Grammy Award-Winning Career

Cissy Houston’s talent did not go unnoticed. Throughout her career, she received several Grammy nominations, winning multiple awards for her contributions to gospel music. Her albums showcased her exceptional vocal range and heartfelt interpretations, earning her a dedicated following. Cissy’s work has influenced the gospel genre and left an indelible mark on contemporary music. She has received several awards and nominations throughout her career, recognizing her contributions to music, particularly in gospel and R&B. Some notable accolades include:

1. Grammy Awards: She has received multiple nominations, including a win for Best Gospel Performance for her album “A Lady Always Waits” in 1998.
2. Gospel Music Hall of Fame: Inducted for her significant impact on gospel music.
3. NAACP Image Awards: Nominated for her contributions to the arts.
4. Billboard Music Awards: Recognized for her work in music, particularly as a background vocalist.

While Cissy’s awards may not be as numerous as those of some contemporary artists, her influence and legacy in music are widely acknowledged and respected.

RELATED: Grammy Legend Dionne Warwick Remembers Cissy Houston

Legendary Grammy winner, Kennedy Center and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame honoree Dionne Warwick gave a statement regarding her departed aunt, Gospel/R&B/Pop singing great, Cissy Houston, who passed on October 7th, 2024. She was 91.

“I’m so deeply saddened,” Ms. Warwick states. “However, knowing that my Aunt Cissy died peacefully and that she is in a much better place, is a consolation and comfort to me.”

VIDEO (above) – Cissy Houston’s induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame w/Dionne Warwick introduction

Guiding Whitney Houston’s Rise to Fame

Cissy Houston’s most significant legacy is undoubtedly her daughter, Whitney Houston. As a mother, Cissy played an instrumental role in shaping Whitney’s early musical career. She often encouraged Whitney to sing at church, and it was during these performances that Whitney’s talent was first recognized. Cissy was always by Whitney’s side, guiding her through the complexities of the music industry and providing unwavering support.

Whitney often credited her mother with being her most significant influence, citing Cissy’s talent and determination as driving forces in her own career. Cissy’s unwavering support helped Whitney become one of the best-selling music artists of all time, with hits like “I Will Always Love You” and “The Greatest Love of All.”

A Lasting Impact on Gospel Music

Cissy Houston’s contributions to gospel music extend beyond her personal achievements. As a member of Sweet Inspirations, she not only helped popularize gospel sounds in mainstream music but also influenced contemporary music with her unique blend of gospel, R&B, and pop. Her work uplifted listeners and inspired countless musicians to explore their roots and incorporate gospel elements into their music.

Remembering Cissy Houston

The music world mourns the loss of Cissy Houston, but her legacy will endure through her music and the lives she touched. She was a mother, mentor, and trailblazer who broke barriers and set a standard for excellence in gospel music. Her powerful voice and generous spirit will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved her.

As we reflect on Cissy’s remarkable life, we celebrate her contributions to music, her unwavering love for her family, and her role in guiding her daughter, Whitney, to greatness. Cissy may have passed, but her influence and legacy will continue to shine brightly for generations.

Remarkable Journey

Cissy Houston’s remarkable journey from Newark to global stardom is a testament to her talent, resilience, and most importantly, her love for family. As we remember her today, let us honor her life and her significant impact on the world of music. Her legacy will live on through her songs and the countless lives she touched with her warmth and wisdom. Cissy was not only Whitney’s mother but also of sons Gary and Michael; she had several grandchildren. Her granddaughter, Bobbie Kristina Brown, died three years after her mother, Whitney, at the age of 22.

“We are blessed and grateful that God allowed her to spend so many years with us, and we are thankful for all the many valuable life lessons that she taught us,” Pat Houston’s statement on Monday added of Cissy Houston. “May she rest in peace, alongside her daughter, Whitney, and granddaughter, Bobbi Kristina, and other cherished family members.”

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