At a Glance
- Gospel legend Richard Smallwood, eight-time Grammy nominee, died at 77.
- He succumbed to complications of kidney failure in Maryland.
- His songs were recorded by Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Destiny’s Child, and Boyz II Men.
- Why it matters: Smallwood’s music bridged classical and gospel traditions, influencing generations of artists and worship communities worldwide.
Richard Smallwood, a revered gospel composer and performer, passed away Tuesday at 77 after a battle with kidney failure. The eight-time Grammy-nominated artist was known for blending classical music with gospel and for creating the enduring hymn “Total Praise.” His legacy lives on through the countless musicians he inspired.
Life and Career
Smallwood began playing piano by ear at age five and formed his own gospel group by eleven. Raised in Washington, D.C., he studied at Howard University, where he helped found the Celestials and the university’s gospel choir. After college, he taught at the University of Maryland and founded the Richard Smallwood Singers in 1977, bringing a contemporary sound to traditional gospel.
- Whitney Houston
- Stevie Wonder
- Destiny’s Child
- Boyz II Men
Legacy and Tributes
Tributes poured in from musicians and church leaders. Bill Carpenter, Smallwood’s representative, highlighted how the singer’s dedication to music kept him alive. Donald Lawrence and Chaka Khan praised his genius and the transformative power of his compositions.
Bill Carpenter stated:
> “Richard was so dedicated to music, and that was the thing that kept him alive all these years. Making music that made people feel something is what made him want to keep breathing and keep moving and keep living.”
Donald Lawrence praised:
> “He really was a genius, a musical genius, a prodigy from a child up. He was very, very, very just giving. Just a great friend.”
> “His art was blending the classical music with gospel which, that hadn’t happened before. He was definitely one of my musical heroes, and I was glad that I was able to get to know him.”
Chaka Khan wrote:
> “His music didn’t just inspire me, it transformed me. He is my favorite pianist, and his brilliance, spirit, and devotion to the music have shaped generations, including my own journey.”
Pastor George L. Parks Jr. reflected:
> “Blessed us in so many distinct ways by just sliding in on the piano, playing for our historic communion services, and also with our choir. I believe Smallwood’s legacy and character will continue to be felt worldwide. Everyone’s maestro, everyone’s songwriter that ministered to their hearts, especially in times of great need and intentional worship.”
Donald Lawrence added:
> “Be OK with being who you are when it comes to your artform. You don’t have to be like anyone else to be popular, to get on the charts, to win awards.”
Signature Work
Smallwood’s anthem “Total Praise” became a modern hymn embraced across churches worldwide. Carpenter noted that the song could be heard in Black, white, and non-denominational churches, cementing its place in contemporary worship.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 1948 | Born in Atlanta |
| 1977 | Founded Richard Smallwood Singers |
Key Takeaways
- Richard Smallwood’s death marks the loss of a gospel pioneer whose compositions continue to resonate.
- His blend of classical and gospel set a new standard for worship music.
- “Total Praise” remains a staple in churches across denominations.
Smallwood’s passing marks the loss of a musical pioneer whose compositions continue to resonate in churches and studios alike.
