Cissy Houston, the mother of the late Whitney Houston and a two-time Grammy-winning singer, has passed away at the age of 91. She was a renowned gospel singer who performed alongside legendary musicians such as Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin.
Houston died on Monday morning at her home in New Jersey while receiving hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease, according to her daughter-in-law Pat Houston. Pat Houston expressed deep sorrow at the loss of the matriarch of their family, highlighting Cissy Houston’s unparalleled contributions to music and culture. She described her as a woman of deep faith and conviction who prioritised family, ministry, and community.
Starting her career in the vocal group the Sweet Inspirations, alongside artists like Doris Troy and Dee Dee Warrick, Cissy Houston went on to provide backup vocals for notable soul singers including Otis Redding, Lou Rawls, and Dionne Warwick. She made significant contributions to songs like Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” and Aretha Franklin’s “Ain’t No Way.” After leaving the Sweet Inspirations to pursue a solo career, Houston became a sought-after session singer, recording over 600 songs across various genres.
Throughout her career, Cissy Houston collaborated with a diverse range of artists such as Chaka Khan, Luther Vandross, and Beyoncé. She won Grammy Awards for her albums “Face to Face” in 1997 and “He Leadeth Me” in the best traditional soul gospel album category the following year. In addition to her musical achievements, Houston penned three books, including “Remembering Whitney: A Mother’s Story of Life, Loss and The Night The Music Stopped.”
Cissy Houston’s career began in 1938 when she joined the gospel group The Drinkard Four with her siblings. She later became Minister of Sacred Music at New Hope Baptist Church, where she had initially worshipped. Houston’s family has requested privacy as they mourn her passing, expressing gratitude for the overwhelming support and love they have received during this difficult time.
Cissy Houston leaves behind a lasting legacy in the music industry, having touched the hearts of many with her powerful voice and significant contributions to the world of music and entertainment.