October 7th 2024.
Cissy Houston, a beloved mother, two-time Grammy winner, and talented performer who shared the stage with musical legends such as Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin, has passed away at the age of 91. She peacefully left this world on Monday morning in her New Jersey home, while surrounded by her family. Her daughter-in-law Pat Houston shared with The Associated Press that she was under hospice care for Alzheimer's disease.
In a statement, Pat Houston expressed the family's deep pain and sadness at the loss of their matriarch. She described Cissy as an unparalleled contributor to popular music and culture, and a strong and towering figure in their lives. With deep faith and conviction, Cissy cared deeply about family, ministry, and community. Her seven-decade career in music and entertainment will always hold a special place in their hearts.
Cissy Houston was a member of the well-known vocal group, the Sweet Inspirations, alongside Doris Troy and her niece Dee Dee Warrick. They provided backup vocals for soul singers like Otis Redding, Lou Rawls, The Drifters, and Dionne Warwick. In 1967, the group had the opportunity to work with Van Morrison on his hit song "Brown Eyed Girl," and also lent their vocals to The Jimi Hendrix Experience's "Burning of the Midnight Lamp." That same year, Cissy worked on Aretha Franklin's classic "Ain't No Way."
Cissy's final performance with the Sweet Inspirations was in 1969 when they shared the stage with Elvis Presley in a Las Vegas show. She also recorded their biggest R&B hit, "A Brand New Lover," with the production team of Gamble and Huff, who appeared on their fifth album "Sweet Sweet Soul." Alongside the group's success and four albums together, Cissy also pursued a successful solo career.
As an in-demand session singer, Cissy recorded over 600 songs in various genres throughout her career. Her powerful vocals can be heard on tracks with a wide range of artists, such as Chaka Khan, Donny Hathaway, Jimi Hendrix, Luther Vandross, Beyoncé, Paul Simon, Roberta Flack, and even her own daughter. In 1971, she collaborated with Burt Bacharach on his solo album, which featured popular songs like "Mexican Divorce," "All Kinds of People," and "One Less Bell to Answer." Cissy also performed beautiful renditions of standards like Barbra Streisand's "Evergreen."
In addition to her successful music career, Cissy also authored three books: "He Leadeth Me," "How Sweet The Sound: My Life with God and Gospel," and "Remembering Whitney: A Mother's Story of Life, Loss, and The Night The Music Stopped." She was a Minister of Sacred Music at New Hope Baptist Church, where she attended since her childhood.
Cissy Houston was the youngest of eight children and started her career in 1938 when she joined her siblings to form the gospel group, The Drinkard Four. She recorded one album with them before embarking on her solo journey. Her legacy will forever live on through her music, books, and the love and memories she shared with her family.
On behalf of the family, Pat Houston expressed their gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time. They respectfully ask for privacy as they mourn the loss of their beloved Cissy. Stay connected with us on our WhatsApp channel for the latest updates on breaking news, celebrities, and sports. Join now and be a part of our community without any comments, algorithms, or privacy concerns.
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