Announcement of Death
Cissy Houston, beloved mother of the legendary Whitney Houston and an acclaimed musician in her own right, has passed away at the age of 91. A towering figure in both gospel and secular music, Cissy left an indelible mark on the music industry. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.
Biography
Born Emily Drinkard on September 30, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey, Cissy Houston came from a musically rich family. She began her career at a young age, joining the Drinkard Quartet when she was just five years old. As she grew, so did her love for music, and alongside her family, she formed the Drinkard Sisters after the success of their gospel album A Joyful Noise in 1959.
Cissy later became a member of the Gospelaires, which transformed into the famous Sweet Inspirations in 1967. This group became known for its innovative harmonies and served as background singers for music icons like Van Morrison and Aretha Franklin. Cissy Houston’s inventive approach to harmonies, including her use of a fourth voice to enhance the soprano parts, was a defining feature of the Sweet Inspirations’ sound.
Loved Ones
Cissy Houston was part of a deeply musical family. She was the mother of Whitney Houston, whose voice captivated the world, and her nieces were Dionne and Dee Dee Warwick, both celebrated singers. Her cousin, the renowned opera singer Leontyne Price, added to the family’s musical legacy. Cissy’s nurturing and mentorship helped guide not only Whitney’s career but also the careers of many others within her circle, especially within her church choir.
Memorial Services
Memorial services for Cissy Houston will be held at Newark’s New Hope Baptist Church, where she directed the choir for many years. The church, which played such an important role in Cissy’s life, is expected to host a heartfelt tribute celebrating her incredible career, faith, and dedication to gospel music.
Closing Thoughts
Cissy Houston’s life was a testament to the power of music. From her early days singing in the Drinkard Quartet to her work with the Sweet Inspirations and her influence on Whitney Houston’s career, she continuously shaped the landscape of American music. While she may have sometimes been overshadowed by the stars she supported, her contributions were foundational to their success. She leaves behind a legacy of rich musical tradition and will always be remembered for her innovation, mentorship, and soulful voice.
Hobbies
Outside of her musical career, Cissy Houston was known for her devotion to her church and family. She enjoyed spending time with her loved ones and nurturing young talent through her work with the choir at New Hope Baptist Church, where her guidance helped shape the voices of many future stars. Cissy also found solace in her faith, which remained a cornerstone of her life.
