Cissy Houston, the Grammy-winning gospel singer and mother of the late Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91. Known for her powerful voice, deep faith, and profound influence on American music, Cissy’s life was a remarkable journey through gospel, soul, and beyond. Her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, confirmed her passing in a heartfelt statement that reflects the impact of a woman who was truly the matriarch of her family and an icon to the music world.
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Cissy Houston has died aged 91. Credit: Michael Buckner / Getty
Let’s reflect on Cissy’s storied life, her contributions to music, and the legacy she leaves behind.
A Musical Journey Began in Newark, New Jersey
Born Emily Drinkard in 1933 in Newark, New Jersey, Cissy’s musical talents were evident from a young age. At just five years old, she began singing in the church, where her powerful voice caught the attention of many. She started her journey as part of a gospel group, The Drinkard Four, alongside her siblings. This early exposure to gospel music laid the foundation for a career that would span more than seven decades.
Over the years, The Drinkard Four evolved, eventually recording one of the first gospel albums on a major label, A Joyful Noise. This milestone marked the beginning of Cissy’s professional career in music, and the group’s contributions solidified their place in gospel history.
The Sweet Inspirations and Backup for Music Legends
Cissy’s career took another leap in 1963, just before her daughter Whitney was born. She helped form The Sweet Inspirations, a backup vocal group that would go on to provide harmony for some of the biggest names in music history. Their soulful voices became a crucial part of the soundtrack for the era, backing icons such as Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Cissy’s niece, Dionne Warwick.
The Sweet Inspirations not only showcased Cissy’s talent but also demonstrated her versatility as a vocalist. This was a time when backup singers were often uncredited and undervalued, yet Cissy and her group elevated the role, bringing gospel roots and soul power to mainstream music.
A Solo Career in the Spotlight
While Cissy made her mark as a background vocalist, her aspirations led her to the forefront. In 1970, she launched a solo career that showcased her powerful voice on its own. Cissy released several albums, including Face to Face and He Leadeth Me, which earned her Grammy recognition and a place among the greats of gospel and soul music. Her voice, deeply imbued with passion and conviction, resonated with audiences around the world.
She won a Grammy for her solo work, and her albums are celebrated for their authenticity, blending the spiritual depth of gospel with the emotional reach of soul. Cissy’s ability to evoke powerful emotions through song was a testament to her artistry and her devotion to her faith.
A Mother’s Heartbreak: Losing Whitney Houston
Cissy was not only a music legend but also a devoted mother to Whitney Houston, one of the most iconic voices of her generation. Whitney’s rise to fame brought tremendous pride, but the joy was also shadowed by personal struggles and, ultimately, tragedy. In 2012, Whitney Houston passed away at the age of 48 due to accidental drowning, compounded by drug use. The loss shook Cissy to her core.
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Cissy Houston died at her home in New Jersey. Credit: Paras Griffin /Getty
Cissy shared her journey through grief in her memoir, Remembering Whitney: A Mother’s Story of Life, Loss, and the Night the Music Stopped, a raw and emotional recount of her relationship with Whitney and the heartache of losing her. In a poignant interview with Oprah in 2013, she recalled the devastating phone call when she learned of her daughter’s passing. She described it as a moment that shattered her world—a mother’s deepest fear realized.
A Legacy of Faith and Family
Throughout her life, Cissy’s faith remained a guiding light. Known for her deep spiritual beliefs, she was actively involved in her church and her community. Cissy’s faith was not just personal; it was an integral part of her public persona and her music. She believed in the power of gospel music to heal and inspire, and she carried this mission throughout her life.
In addition to her music, Cissy was a devoted family woman. She played a significant role in raising her grandchildren, guiding them through life with the same values that she held dear. Her role as matriarch was something she embraced fully, offering strength and support to her family even through immense tragedy.
Cissy’s Final Days and the Family’s Farewell
In her final days, Cissy was under hospice care in her New Jersey home, where she was surrounded by loved ones. She had been battling Alzheimer’s disease, but her spirit remained unbreakable until the end. Cissy’s family expressed their sorrow and gratitude for a life well-lived in a statement from Pat Houston: “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.”
Cissy with daughter Whitney in 1987. Credit: L. Busacca / Getty
Cissy’s family now honors her legacy through their grief, celebrating the incredible impact she had on music and on the lives of those around her. Through her Facebook page and other social platforms, fans and family members continue to share memories, stories, and tributes that reflect the love and admiration Cissy inspired.
Remembering a Gospel Legend
Cissy Houston’s legacy extends far beyond her family and even her music. She was a trailblazer in the gospel genre and a vocal powerhouse who made her mark across multiple music styles. She left behind a body of work that reflects her passion, faith, and dedication to excellence. For her contributions to music, her role as a mother and matriarch, and her unbreakable spirit, Cissy will forever be remembered and celebrated.
As we reflect on her life, we’re reminded that Cissy Houston was more than just an entertainer—she was a voice of strength, a symbol of faith, and a beacon of love. Her impact on the world of gospel music and her influence on generations of artists, including her own daughter, Whitney, is a testament to the extraordinary life she led.
Our thoughts are with Cissy’s family, friends, and fans as they mourn her passing and celebrate her enduring legacy. Her voice may be silent, but her influence will continue to resonate in the hearts of all who were touched by her music and her story.
