Cissy Houston, mother of the late Whitney Houston and a two-time Grammy-winning singer, has passed away at the age of 91. Cissy, known for her powerful voice and remarkable contributions to music, died in her New Jersey home on Monday while under hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease.
Surrounded by her loved ones during her final moments, her death marks the end of a significant chapter in music history. Cissy’s passing was confirmed by her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, who expressed deep sorrow at the loss of the matriarch of their family.
In her statement, Pat Houston spoke of the profound impact Cissy had on those around her, calling her a woman of deep faith and conviction. She also praised her mother-in-law’s unparalleled contributions to music, emphasizing her dedication to her family, ministry, and community.
Cissy’s career in the music industry spanned over seven decades, during which she cemented herself as a towering figure both within her family and in the broader entertainment world. Her influence on gospel and soul music has left an enduring legacy.
Cissy’s journey in music began when she joined the vocal group, the Sweet Inspirations, alongside Doris Troy and her niece, Dee Dee Warwick. The group became renowned for singing backup for many legendary soul singers, including Otis Redding, Lou Rawls, and Dionne Warwick.
Their remarkable talents earned them recognition as some of the most sought-after backing vocalists of the time. The Sweet Inspirations’ collaborations with major artists also extended to Van Morrison’s hit ‘Brown Eyed Girl’ and the Jimi Hendrix Experience’s ‘Burning of the Midnight Lamp.’
One of Cissy’s most notable collaborations during her time with the Sweet Inspirations was working with Aretha Franklin on her classic track ‘Ain’t No Way’ in 1967. Cissy’s contributions to the song helped solidify her reputation as a talented and versatile singer.
That same year, the group joined Elvis Presley on stage for his famous Las Vegas shows, where Cissy performed her final live appearance with the Sweet Inspirations. The group’s final recording session together produced their biggest hit, ‘(Gotta Find) A Brand New Lover.’
After parting ways with the Sweet Inspirations, Cissy pursued a solo career that flourished. She became one of the most in-demand session singers, recording over 600 songs across a wide range of genres.
Cissy’s voice could be heard on tracks by artists such as Chaka Khan, Luther Vandross, Beyoncé, and Paul Simon. Her versatility as a singer allowed her to make significant contributions to different musical styles, further establishing her as a key figure in the music industry.
In addition to her work in secular music, Cissy’s gospel career brought her even more recognition. She won two Grammy Awards for her gospel albums, ‘Face to Face’ and ‘He Leadeth Me,’ showcasing her strong faith and deep roots in gospel singing.
Her ability to move between gospel and other genres highlighted her exceptional talent and commitment to her craft. These albums not only brought her personal acclaim but also inspired many within the gospel community.
Cissy’s death marks the loss of a legendary figure in the world of music, whose career and influence spanned generations. Her role as the matriarch of the Houston family and her steadfast dedication to her faith, family, and music will be remembered by all who knew her.
As a strong, towering figure, her legacy lives on through her extensive body of work, which continues to inspire and influence musicians today. Her contributions to music, both as a solo artist and as part of iconic collaborations, will remain a lasting part of her memory.
The world will not soon forget Cissy Houston’s remarkable voice and presence in the music industry. From her work with some of the greatest soul and rock legends to her successful gospel career, she leaves behind a legacy of excellence.
As the mother of Whitney Houston, one of the greatest singers of all time, Cissy’s impact on music is undeniable, and her contributions will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
