Cissy Houston, Mother of Whitney Houston, Passes Away at 91
Cissy Houston, renowned gospel singer and mother of music icon Whitney Houston, has passed away at the age of 91. A trailblazer in the music industry, Cissy’s career spanned decades, leaving an indelible mark on gospel, soul, and R&B.
Born Emily “Cissy” Drinkard in Newark, New Jersey, she first rose to prominence singing with her family group, the Drinkard Singers. She later became a sought-after backup vocalist, lending her powerful voice to artists like Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Wilson Pickett. Her influence extended far beyond her own recordings, as she played a crucial role in guiding her daughter Whitney Houston to international superstardom.
Cissy’s death marks a somber moment for the Houston family, which has faced numerous tragedies, including Whitney Houston’s passing in 2012 and the heartbreaking death of Whitney’s daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown, in 2015. Despite these personal challenges, Cissy continued to be a source of strength and inspiration, both in her church and the broader music community.
Her musical legacy, devotion to gospel, and influence on generations of singers ensure she will not be forgotten. As tributes pour in from fans and fellow artists, Cissy Houston will be remembered as a pioneering force in gospel music and a loving mother to one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
