Cissy Houston, born Emily Drinkard in 1933, is an American soul and gospel singer, best known as the matriarch of a musical dynasty. Her powerful voice has earned her numerous accolades throughout her career, and she has been instrumental in shaping the sound of modern soul and R&B. A native of Newark, New Jersey, Cissy began singing in church choirs and eventually became a backup singer for legendary artists such as Aretha Franklin, Elvis Presley, and Otis Redding.
Houston’s career took off in the 1960s with the Sweet Inspirations, a popular backup group that provided vocals for some of the biggest hits of the era. Her vocal prowess not only earned her Grammy Awards but also set the foundation for future generations of her family to excel in music. Her daughter, the late Whitney Houston, is one of the best-selling music artists of all time, thanks in part to Cissy’s influence and guidance.
Beyond her singing career, Cissy Houston is known for her devotion to her family and faith. She has worked as a choir director and continues to be a respected figure in the gospel music community. Through her dedication to music and her family, Cissy Houston’s legacy endures as one of the most influential voices in American music history.
