Richard Smallwood, Notable Gospel Singer, Dies at 77

(AP) — Richard Smallwood, a prominent gospel singer and recording artist, has passed away at the age of 77.

Smallwood died on Tuesday at a nursing center in Sandy Springs, Maryland, due to complications related to kidney failure, as confirmed by his agent, Bill Carpenter.

Carpenter noted in an interview that Smallwood had faced many health challenges, yet his passion for music was a source of strength for him.

“Richard’s love for music kept him going for many years,” Carpenter said. “The ability to create music that resonated with people was what motivated him to keep living.”

Throughout his career, many well-known artists, including Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men, have performed and recorded Smallwood’s songs. For example, Houston introduced “I Love the Lord” in the 1996 film “The Preacher’s Wife,” as detailed in his biography. He was honored by the Gospel Music Hall of Fame.

Smallwood significantly influenced gospel music, with Chaka Khan expressing her heartfelt tributes on Facebook after his passing. She shared, “His music not only inspired me; it changed me. He is my favorite pianist, and his brilliance, spirit, and dedication have shaped not just generations before me but my own journey as well.”

Born in Atlanta on November 30, 1948, Smallwood displayed musical talent early, playing piano by ear at just five years old. By eleven, he formed his own gospel group.

His upbringing was in Washington, D.C., under the care of his mother, Mabel, and stepfather, Rev. Chester Lee “CL” Smallwood, who was a pastor at Union Temple Baptist Church.

Smallwood graduated summa cum laude with a degree in music from Howard University and was a trailblazer in the gospel genre, being part of the first gospel group at the university, known as the Celestials. Carpenter’s obituary noted he also helped establish the university’s gospel choir.

After graduating, he taught music at the University of Maryland before forming the Richard Smallwood Singers in 1977, blending modernity with traditional gospel. He later established the Vision choir, which was crucial in some of his biggest hits, like “Total Praise.”

“Total Praise” has emerged as a contemporary hymn cherished by diverse congregations, Carpenter commented. “You could walk into any church, regardless of denomination, and hear that song. It really resonated throughout the Christian community. Even if he hadn’t composed anything else, he would still be in modern hymnals.”

Recently, due to mild dementia and other health concerns, Smallwood had been unable to continue recording, and members of the Vision Choir provided support for him during this time.

Khan remarked that his legacy will endure “through every sound and soul he touched.” Adding a personal touch, she concluded, “I’m truly looking forward to singing with you all in heaven.”