Written by Gusta Mcfadden
Modified & Updated: 04 Mar 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
Cissy Houston is a renowned American soul and gospel singer who rose to fame during the 1970s. Born on September 30, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey, Cissy Houston’s career in the music industry spans over six decades. While most people recognize her as the mother of the late Whitney Houston, Cissy has had an incredible journey of her own. From her powerful vocals to her influential contributions to gospel music, Cissy Houston has made an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. In this article, we will delve into the life of Cissy Houston and uncover 12 surprising facts about her that you may not be aware of. So, hold on tight as we take a deep dive into the fascinating world of Cissy Houston’s personal and professional life.
Key Takeaways:
- Cissy Houston, mother of Whitney Houston, had a successful career as a backup singer before becoming a Grammy-winning gospel artist and vocal coach for stars like Alicia Keys and Mariah Carey.
- Despite personal tragedies, Cissy Houston’s powerful voice and collaborations with music legends have left an immeasurable impact on the industry, earning her prestigious awards and inspiring generations of musicians.
Cissy Houston had a successful career as a backup singer before going solo.
Cissy Houston started her music career as a backup singer for various artists, including Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin, before eventually stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist.
She is the mother of the legendary singer Whitney Houston.
Cissy Houston is the proud mother of the late Whitney Houston, one of the most renowned and influential vocalists of all time.
Cissy Houston was a member of the gospel group The Drinkard Singers.
Before launching her solo career, Cissy Houston was a member of The Drinkard Singers, a gospel group that also included her sister, Lee Warwick, and her cousin, Dionne Warwick.
She achieved success as a gospel artist.
While Cissy Houston had success as a backup singer and a solo artist, she found her true calling in gospel music, where her powerful and soulful voice resonated with audiences around the world.
Cissy Houston recorded several albums throughout her career.
Throughout her career, Cissy Houston released a number of albums, including “Presenting Cissy Houston,” “Think It Over,” and “Step Aside for a Lady.”
She experienced personal tragedy with the untimely deaths of her daughter and granddaughter.
Cissy Houston had to endure heartbreaking losses in her life, first with the tragic passing of her daughter, Whitney Houston, and later with the untimely death of her granddaughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown.
Cissy Houston is a Grammy Award-winning artist.
Her incredible talent and contribution to the music industry were recognized with a Grammy Award for her powerful gospel album, “Face to Face.”
She was a vocal coach for several successful artists.
In addition to her own music career, Cissy Houston has shared her knowledge and skills as a vocal coach for artists such as Alicia Keys and Mariah Carey.
Cissy Houston has collaborated with other musical legends.
Throughout her career, Cissy Houston has had the privilege of collaborating with esteemed artists such as Luther Vandross, B.B. King, and Stevie Wonder, showcasing her versatility and range.
She has been an advocate for Alzheimer’s disease awareness.
After her husband, John Houston, passed away from complications related to Alzheimer’s disease, Cissy Houston became an advocate for raising awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s research.
Cissy Houston’s contributions to the music industry have been recognized with prestigious awards and honors.
Her dedication and talent have earned her accolades such as the Rhythm & Blues Foundation’s Pioneer Award and induction into the New Jersey Hall of Fame.
She continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians.
Cissy Houston’s impact on the music industry is immeasurable, and her legacy as a talented artist and influential figure will continue to inspire and influence generations to come.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Cissy Houston is a legendary figure in the world of music, with a remarkable career and a plethora of accomplishments under her belt. From her early beginnings as a backup singer to her powerful performances and her influential role as a teacher and mentor, Cissy has left an indelible mark on the music industry.Through her numerous albums, collaborations, and notable performances, Cissy Houston has captivated audiences worldwide with her soulful voice and undeniable talent. Her contributions extend beyond just being the mother of the late Whitney Houston; she has proven herself as a standout artist in her own right.From her unique vocal range to her ability to convey emotions through her music, Cissy Houston continues to inspire and influence aspiring singers and musicians. Her legacy serves as a testament to her immense talent, dedication, and enduring impact on the music industry.
FAQs
Q: When was Cissy Houston born?
A: Cissy Houston was born on September 30, 1933.
Q: What is Cissy Houston’s real name?
A: Cissy Houston’s real name is Emily Drinkard.
Q: Did Cissy Houston have a successful solo career?
A: Yes, Cissy Houston had a successful solo career, releasing several albums and achieving chart success with her singles.
Q: What is Cissy Houston’s most famous song?
A: Cissy Houston’s most famous song is “Midnight Train to Georgia,” which was a hit in the 1970s.
Q: Did Cissy Houston have any siblings who were also musicians?
A: Yes, Cissy Houston had siblings who were also musicians, including her sister Lee Warwick and her cousin Dionne Warwick.
Q: Did Cissy Houston win any awards during her career?
A: Yes, Cissy Houston won several awards, including a Grammy Award for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album.
Q: Is Cissy Houston still active in the music industry?
A: While Cissy Houston is not as active in the music industry as she once was, she continues to be admired and respected for her contributions.
Q: Did Cissy Houston teach singing?
A: Yes, Cissy Houston is known for her work as a vocal coach and has taught many aspiring singers throughout her career.
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