Richard Smallwood, gospel music icon, dies at 77
Gospel Singer Richard Smallwood sings at the Prayer Breakfast for the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation's 44th Annual Legislative Conference at Walter E. Washington Convention Center on September 27, 2014 in Washington, DC. (Photo by Earl Gibson
Grammy-nominated gospel singer Richard Smallwood, whose music was covered by Destiny’s Child and Whitney Houston, has died at 77.
According to Variety, a representative for Smallwood confirmed that he died Tuesday of complications from kidney failure at the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Maryland.
What they're saying:
"We are saddened to announce the passing of world-renowned artist, songwriter, and musician, Richard Smallwood," his Instagram page read. "The family asks that you respect our privacy during this difficult time, while helping to celebrate the legacy he leaves behind and the gifts he unselfishly shared with the world."
Dig deeper:
According to Metropolitan Baptist Church, Smallwood is best known for gospel standards such as "Total Praise," "Center of My Joy," and "I Love the Lord," songs that have become staples in churches around the world.
Smallwood was born in Atlanta, Georgia, and raised in Washington, D.C.
He began playing piano by ear at age five, started formal training at seven and formed his first gospel group by age 11.
After completing his education, he taught music privately and at institutions including the Washington School of Music, the D.C. Public School System and the University of Maryland, College Park.
In 1977, Smallwood formed the Richard Smallwood Singers, signing with Benson Records in 1981. Their debut album spent 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual chart and introduced a sophisticated new sound to gospel music.
In 1995, Smallwood launched the ensemble Vision, whose debut album "Adoration: Live in Atlanta" featured the landmark song "Total Praise."
Smallwood earned a Master of Divinity degree from Howard University School of Divinity in 2004 and was ordained at Metropolitan.
The Source: Information in the story comes from a report by Variety, which cited a representative for Richard Smallwood who confirmed his death and cause, as well as a statement posted on Smallwood’s official Instagram page announcing his passing. Additional biographical details and context about his music, ministry and legacy are drawn from information provided by Metropolitan Baptist Church and previously published accounts of his career. This story was reported from Los Angeles.