Cissy Houston Dies at 91; Gospel Star Guided Daughter Whitney’s Rise

Cissy Houston, the renowned gospel singer and mother of the late Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91. With a career spanning over six decades, Cissy was a powerhouse in the music industry and a guiding force in her daughter’s rise to stardom.

Born Emily “Cissy” Drinkard in Newark, New Jersey, in 1933, Cissy began her music career as a member of the gospel group The Drinkard Singers, which included her sister Lee and her cousins Dionne Warwick and Dee Dee Warwick. The group gained recognition for their powerful harmonies and soulful performances, paving the way for Cissy’s solo career as a gospel singer.

Cissy’s talent and passion for music were evident from a young age, and she quickly became a sought-after vocalist in the industry. She worked with artists such as Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Wilson Pickett, establishing herself as a versatile and dynamic performer.

But it was her role as a mother that truly defined Cissy’s legacy. She was a guiding force in her daughter Whitney’s rise to fame, supporting her through the highs and lows of her career. Cissy’s own experiences in the music industry gave her a unique perspective on the challenges that come with fame, and she was always there to offer guidance and wisdom to Whitney.

Whitney Houston’s success as a singer and actress is well-known, with hits like “I Will Always Love You” and “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” cementing her status as one of the greatest vocalists of all time. But behind the scenes, Cissy Houston played a crucial role in shaping her daughter’s career and ensuring her success.

In addition to her work with Whitney, Cissy continued to pursue her own music career, releasing several solo albums and collaborating with artists like Luther Vandross and Chaka Khan. She was a respected figure in the gospel community, known for her powerful voice and unwavering faith.

Cissy Houston’s passing is a great loss to the music industry, but her legacy will live on through her timeless music and the impact she had on her daughter’s career. She will be remembered as a trailblazer in the gospel genre and a loving mother who guided her daughter to greatness. Rest in peace, Cissy Houston.

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