News - Gospel singer Richard Smallwood, legendary figure, passes away at 77.

The world of gospel music mourns the loss of Richard Smallwood, a towering figure in the genre, who passed away at the age of 77 due to complications from kidney failure. Born on November 30, 1948, in Atlanta, Smallwood grew up in Washington, D.C., where he fostered his profound talent and passion for music. His early life was steeped in gospel traditions, with his stepfather being a pastor and his mother nurturing his musical inclinations. Smallwood's journey in music began at an impressive age of five when he started learning the piano. By eleven, his love for gospel music had already propelled him to form his first gospel group. This early foundation only strengthened when he attended Howard University, a pivotal chapter in his life where he honed his skills and expanded the reach of gospel music by joining and energizing the Celestials, the university’s first gospel ensemble. In 1977, Smallwood took his passion a step further and founded the acclaimed Richard Smallwood Singers. The group, known for its soulful and moving performances, achieved a significant milestone with their 1984 album 'Psalms', which not only topped Billboard's Gospel Albums chart but also earned a Grammy nomination for best soul gospel performance by a duo or group. Following numerous successful releases, Smallwood evolved his musical vision by forming Vision Choir, further cementing his influence in the genre. Over a distinguished career spanning over five decades, Smallwood's expressive voice as a singer, pianist, and songwriter garnered him eight Grammy nominations and an array of prestigious awards such as Dove and Stellar Awards. His indelible mark on gospel music includes timeless pieces like 'Trust Me', which made waves on the gospel charts, and 'Total Praise', a song that resonated across generations and was even recorded by artists such as Whitney Houston and performed by Destiny's Child. In 2019, Smallwood shared his life’s journey and deep spiritual convictions in his memoir 'Total Praise: The Autobiography', named after one of his most beloved compositions. Despite facing health challenges in his later years, including mild dementia, Smallwood's legacy and spirit continue to inspire countless musicians and fans across the globe. As tributes pour in from all corners of the world, his family has expressed immense gratitude for the overwhelming support received from fans, musicians, and the broader community. They reflect on his life and contributions, urging everyone to keep his legacy alive in their thoughts and prayers. Through his music and his life, Richard Smallwood leaves an enduring legacy that celebrates faith, resilience, and the transformative power of gospel music.