Cissy Houston, the renowned gospel singer and mother of pop icon Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91. The news broke on October 7, 2024, with her family confirming she died peacefully at her Newark, New Jersey home, surrounded by loved ones. Cissy Houston, born Emily Drinkard on September 30, 1933, had been receiving hospice care due to Alzheimer's disease, which her family revealed was part of her recent struggles.
Her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, released a statement expressing the family's deep sorrow, saying, "Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We lost the matriarch of our family." Pat went on to describe Cissy as someone who was "a strong and towering figure" showing great devotion to her family, ministry, and community.
Cissy Houston’s musical career spanned more than seventy years, during which she became one of the most influential figures in gospel music. Over her lifetime, she won two Grammy Awards for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album, reflecting her rich contribution to the genre. Her wins came with the albums "Face to Face" and "He Leadeth Me," both released in the late 1990s.
Before her solo success, Cissy was part of the popular group the Drinkard Singers—a family gospel group formed when she was just five years old. Later, she formed another vocal group known as The Sweet Inspirations, which included her niece Dee Dee Warwick. This group provided background vocals for some of the biggest names in music, including Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Jimi Hendrix. They lent their voices to iconic tracks like Franklin's "(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman" and Van Morrison's "Brown Eyed Girl." Their harmonies became synonymous with the height of soul music.
Cissy Houston embraced multiple genres throughout her career, moving beyond gospel to work with artists across pop, R&B, and disco. She collaborated with numerous notable musicians, including Aretha Franklin, Paul Simon, and Beyoncé. Houston's influence stretched far and wide, marking her as both a formidable talent and respected figure within the music industry.
Her personal life was interwoven with tragedy. Cissy not only faced the loss of her daughter Whitney, who died in 2012, but also her granddaughter Bobbi Kristina Brown, who passed away just three years later. These losses took a toll on Houston, who expressed anger and heartbreak over the circumstances surrounding her daughter’s struggles with addiction.
Many within the music industry expressed their condolences upon learning of Cissy Houston's death. Media mogul Tyler Perry shared his sadness, acknowledging the loss of three generations of Houston women. Bobby Brown, Whitney Houston's former husband, also paid tribute, stating, "Sending love and blessings to the Houston family on this great loss. May she rest in Peace and Power."
Cissy was not only known for her incredible vocal talent but also her role as a loving mother and nurturing grandmother. Her family has requested privacy as they mourn and prepare to celebrate the life of this beloved matriarch, whose influence has transcended generations.
The New Hope Baptist Church of Newark, where Cissy served as choir director for over fifty years, also announced her passing, expressing gratitude for her life and contributions to gospel music. The church community is preparing to celebrate her life, honoring her commitment not only to music but also to her faith.
Cissy Houston’s contributions to the music world leave behind a legacy of powerful vocals and heartfelt songs. Her impact on gospel and soul music can still be felt today, threading through the work of countless artists who have been inspired by her spirit and talent. May she rest peacefully, now reunited with her daughter and granddaughter, forever remembered by her loved ones and the millions of fans touched by her music.