Grammy-nominated gospel legend Richard Smallwood, whose uplifting music inspired generations of faith-filled Americans, has passed away at 77, leaving a void in the cultural heartland cherished by conservative families.

Details of Passing

A representative confirmed to Variety that Richard Smallwood died Tuesday at the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Maryland. Complications from kidney failure caused his death at age 77. In recent years, Smallwood faced mild dementia and health issues that halted new music recordings. His passing marks the end of a career rooted in gospel traditions that strengthened American family values and faith communities. Supporters mourn the loss of this vocal powerhouse.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born in November 1948 in Atlanta, Georgia, Smallwood moved to Washington, D.C., raised by his mother and stepfather. He started playing piano at five and formed his own gospel group by age 11. Smallwood attended Howard University, earning a music degree as part of the university’s first gospel ensemble, the Celestials. These formative years built the foundation for his lifelong dedication to gospel music, resonating with audiences seeking spiritual solace amid cultural shifts.

Career Milestones with Richard Smallwood Singers

In 1977, Smallwood founded the Richard Smallwood Singers. They signed with Onyx Records in 1982, releasing their debut album “The Richard Smallwood Singers,” which charted 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Album Sales. The 1984 album “Psalms” earned their first Grammy nomination. The group released five more records, establishing Smallwood as a leading vocalist, pianist, and songwriter. His work countered secular trends, uplifting conservative listeners with messages of praise and trust.

Transition to Vision and Later Achievements

Smallwood disbanded the Singers in the early 1990s, forming the choir Vision for albums through 2015. “Trust Me” peaked at No. 9 on Hot Gospel Songs, securing his eighth and final Grammy nomination in 2012 for best gospel song. He earned Dove and Stellar Awards throughout. In 2019, Smallwood published “Total Praise: The Autobiography,” sharing his family history. His songs, including “I’ll Trust You,” influenced mainstream artists while preserving gospel purity.

Songs by Smallwood gained wide reach. Whitney Houston covered “I Love the Lord” for “The Preacher’s Wife.” Destiny’s Child included “Total Praise” in their 2007 “Gospel Medley.” These crossovers introduced faith-based music to broader audiences. Smallwood is survived by brothers, sisters, nieces, nephews, and godchildren, ensuring his legacy endures in American gospel traditions that conservatives hold dear against modern dilutions.

Sources:

Richard Smallwood, Grammy-Nominated Gospel Singer and Pianist, Dies at 77 – Variety