Grammy-nominated gospel icon Richard Smallwood behind song covered by Whitney Houston dead at 77

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Richard Smallwood, a well-known gospel singer who touched many people with his music, has passed away at 77 years old.

According to his representative, Smallwood died on Tuesday at a nursing home in Sandy Spring, Maryland, due to complications from kidney failure.

I was so saddened to hear about his passing. The news was shared on his Facebook page, and it was a beautiful tribute to his incredible career and the lasting impact he had on gospel music. He truly left behind a wonderful legacy.

It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Richard Smallwood, a celebrated artist, songwriter, and musician. His family asks for privacy as they grieve, and encourages everyone to remember and celebrate his life and the many gifts he gave to the world.

His music had a wide impact, going beyond religious settings and bringing him eight Grammy nominations, as well as the respect of musicians from all kinds of genres.

Oh my gosh, you will NOT believe this! Back in ’96, the absolute ICON, Whitney Houston, recorded one of his songs – ‘I Love the Lord’ – for The Preacher’s Wife soundtrack! It’s still one of my favorite things EVER, and it really cemented him as a genius in my eyes. Seriously, that song is pure magic!

The song continued to have an impact the next year, as Boyz II Men included a segment of it on their 1997 album, Evolution.

Beyoncé Knowles, Kelly Rowland, and Michelle Williams of Destiny’s Child also performed covers of Smallwood’s songs.

As someone who’s observed impactful lives, I can tell you that Smallwood wasn’t just a gifted musician. He was deeply admired for his strong faith, his dedication to his craft, and, importantly, for how much he invested in helping others grow within the gospel world. He truly left a legacy of both talent and kindness.

Tributes poured in across the globe on social media following the news.

One social media user described Richard Smallwood as a musical genius and a hugely influential figure in gospel music and the church. They said his music inspired many and provided comfort during challenging times, adding that his impact will continue to be felt long after his passing – his songs and the faith they represent will live on.

One person commented that Richard Smallwood’s music is truly timeless and will always be considered a classic. They described him as a musical genius whose work will continue to inspire people for generations.

One fan tweeted that Richard Smallwood is one of a kind, praising his beautiful music and heartfelt lyrics. They noted you can truly feel his strong faith in every song, and described him as a master musician.

Richard Smallwood began his recording career in 1982 with his debut album, The Richard Smallwood Singers, shortly after graduating with honors from Howard University.

Besides having his songs recorded by artists such as Yolanda Adams and Karen Clark-Sheard, he also played piano for opera singer Leontyne Price at a White House Christmas event during President Reagan’s time in office.

After his death, songwriter Chaka Khan paid tribute on Facebook.

She explained that his music wasn’t just inspirational—it fundamentally changed her. He’s her most admired pianist, and his talent, passion, and dedication have influenced many musicians, including herself.

She shared that he would be deeply missed, but his impact would live on through his music and everyone he inspired. She expressed her hope to sing with him again in the afterlife.

His biggest hits include the tracks Total Praise, Trust Me” and I’ll Trust You. 

In 2019, he published his autobiography, Total Praise, detailing his journey as both a musician and a writer.

Variety reports that Smallwood had been dealing with mild dementia and other health problems, which kept him from being able to record new music.

He is survived by his siblings, nieces, nephews and godchildren. 

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2025-12-31 21:48