World-renowned gospel singer and recording artist Richard Smallwood died on Tuesday. He was 77. His family announced his passing on social media.
According to his Gospel Music Association bio:
A classically trained pianist, composer, and singer, Richard Smallwood’s music reshaped contemporary Gospel — blending rich musical tradition with deep spiritual expression. His timeless songs like “Total Praise” and “I Love the Lord” became staples in worship services around the globe and were embraced by audiences far beyond the church, inspiring artists from Whitney Houston to Destiny’s Child.
Over a remarkable five-decade career, he earned multiple Dove and Stellar Awards and received eight GRAMMY nominations for his enduring contributions to music.
He was inducted int the GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2006 and received a Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award by President Joe Biden in 2023.
