Cissy Houston, the celebrated Grammy-winning gospel singer and mother of the late Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91. She died peacefully at her home in New Jersey, surrounded by her family. The news comes as a deep sorrow to many, with her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, confirming the family’s loss.
“Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family,” Pat Houston stated. She highlighted Cissy’s “unparalleled” contributions to popular music and her profound influence on their lives.
A Legacy of Music and Faith
Cissy Houston’s music career began in 1938 when she formed the gospel group The Drinkard Four with her siblings. They recorded one album that marked the beginning of her remarkable journey in music. Houston later joined the renowned vocal group Sweet Inspirations, which featured her niece, Dee Dee Warwick, and Doris Troy. This group was instrumental in providing backup vocals for iconic artists like Otis Redding, Lou Rawls, and Dionne Warwick.
The Sweet Inspirations made a significant impact on the music scene in the 1960s. They lent their voices to classics such as Van Morrison’s “Brown Eyed Girl” and The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s “Burning of the Midnight Lamp.” Cissy Houston also contributed her vocals to Aretha Franklin’s hit “Ain’t No Way” in 1967, further solidifying her place in music history.
A Flourishing Solo Career
After her time with the Sweet Inspirations, Cissy Houston pursued a successful solo career. She recorded over 600 songs across multiple genres, showcasing her incredible talent and versatility. Houston worked with various notable artists, including Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway, and even her daughter, Whitney Houston.
Her music has been described as a blend of gospel, soul, and R&B, resonating with fans worldwide. Cissy won two Grammy Awards for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album for her albums “Face to Face” in 1997 and “He Leadeth Me” in 1998.
A Woman of Faith and Family
Throughout her life, Cissy Houston was known for her deep faith and commitment to family and community. She attended New Hope Baptist Church, where she eventually became the Minister of Sacred Music. Her devotion to her faith and her family was evident in all aspects of her life.
Cissy was the youngest of eight children and a proud mother to three children: Michael, Gary, and Whitney. Tragically, her daughter Whitney passed away in 2012, followed by her granddaughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown, in 2015. Cissy’s legacy of love and strength will continue to inspire those who knew her.
“Mother Cissy has been a strong and towering figure in our lives,” Pat Houston shared. “Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts.”
In this time of mourning, the family has expressed gratitude for the love and support they have received. They have requested privacy as they navigate this profound loss.
