The music world is still mourning the loss of Emily Drinkard, professionally known as Cissy Houston, a renowned gospel and soul singer who passed away last week at the age of 91 while in hospice care for Alzheimer’s disease, as disclosed by her daughter-in-law Pat Houston.
As the mother of Whitney Houston, Cissy’s influence on her daughter’s iconic career was undeniable.
Born on September 30, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey, Cissy grew up in a musical family, as her mother, Marie Houston, was a gospel singer, and her father, Nitch Houston, played the saxophone.
In the 1950s and 1960s, Cissy sang with various gospel groups, including the Drinkard Singers and the Sweet Inspirations. Her powerful, soulful voice caught the attention of industry giants like Mahalia Jackson, who became a mentor, and Aretha Franklin, with whom she sang backup.
She was a two-time Grammy Award-winning singer and formed the R&B group the Sweet Inspirations, which sang backup for big names like Otis Redding, Dusty Springfield, and Dionne Warwick. They also performed on Van Morrison’s hit song Brown Eyed Girl.
After finding success with the Sweet Inspirations, Cissy embarked on a solo career, where she sang with artists including Chaka Khan, Jimi Hendrix, Beyonce, Paul Simon, and her late daughter Whitney Houston, who died in 2012 at the age of 48.
Cissy released several albums like Think It Over, Step Aside for a Lady, and others.
Cissy’s impact on Whitney’s career was immense, as she taught Whitney gospel and classical music, sang on several of Whitney’s tracks, and guided Whitney’s early career.
“Cissy Houston was a legendary talent, devoted mother, and inspiration to generations of singers,” Clive Davis, a music industry executive, said.
Whitney Houston’s estate released a statement celebrating Cissy’s life, legacy, and unwavering dedication to her family and craft.
“As we remember Cissy Houston, her contributions to music and her family’s legacy continue to inspire gospel and soul music preservation, mentorship and guidance for aspiring artists, and unwavering support for her loved ones,” the statement read in part.
Cissy won a Grammy Award for her traditional soul gospel album Face to Face in 1997 and again the following year for her album He Leadeth Me. She also wrote three books, including one commemorating her daughter, called Remembering Whitney: A Mother’s Story of Life, Loss, and The Night The Music Stopped.
Musicians do not die because their legacy lives on through their voices. Rest in peace, Cissy Houston, alongside your daughter Whitney, granddaughter Bobbi Kristina, and other cherished family members. Your voice and spirit will live on.
