Cissy Houston, a legendary soul and gospel artist who had a long and illustrious career in the music industry, passed away at the age of 91. She died in her New Jersey home while under hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease. Cissy was known for her incredible contributions to popular music and culture, and her legacy will always be remembered. Her daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, expressed profound sadness at the loss of the matriarch of their family, highlighting Cissy’s deep faith, conviction, and love for family, ministry, and community.
From a young age, Cissy Houston was a church performer and eventually became a member of the famous backing group The Sweet Inspirations in the 1960s. She sang backup for various renowned artists such as Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Van Morrison. Houston’s impressive repertoire included hits like “Think,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” and “Brown Eyed Girl.” She also had her own success with The Sweet Inspirations, releasing top singles like “Sweet Inspiration” and working with artists like Jimi Hendrix. Her career continued to flourish as she worked with a wide range of artists in different genres.
Cissy Houston’s solo career took off after leaving The Sweet Inspirations, and she went on to record several albums, including the Grammy-winning gospel albums “Face to Face” and “He Leadeth Me.” She also collaborated on various projects with artists like Burt Bacharach and Barbra Streisand, showcasing her versatile vocal talents. Despite her success, Houston remained close to her roots in New Jersey, leading a youth choir at Newark’s New Hope Baptist Church, where her daughter Whitney Houston also sang as a child. Their musical bond was strong, and they often performed together on stage and in recordings.
The relationship between Cissy and Whitney Houston was complex, with moments of contention but also deep love and collaboration. They shared many musical milestones, including Whitney’s national television debut and collaborations on albums and films. However, Whitney’s struggles with drug addiction ultimately led to her tragic death in 2012, which deeply affected Cissy. The loss of her granddaughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown, further added to her grief. Despite the challenges, Cissy Houston’s dedication to her family and music remained unwavering throughout her life.
Cissy Houston’s influence on the music industry and her devotion to her craft and family will always be remembered. Her legacy as a talented singer, mentor, and mother continues to inspire many in the industry. The outpouring of love and support from fans and the music community during this difficult time is a testament to the impact she had on people’s lives. As the family mourns the loss of Cissy Houston, they request privacy to grieve and remember her remarkable life. Her memory will live on through her music and the countless lives she touched during her seven-decade-long career.
