Grammy-nominated gospel icon Richard Smallwood, known for “Total Praise,” has died at 77 after kidney failure complications.
Richard Smallwood, a towering figure in gospel music whose songs became staples in churches around the world, has died at the age of 77.
His passing marks the end of a powerful era in gospel, but his music and message will continue to live on through generations of singers and worshippers.
A representative confirmed that Smallwood died Tuesday at the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Maryland due to complications from kidney failure. In recent years, he also faced mild dementia and other health challenges that kept him away from recording new music.
Smallwood’s influence reached far beyond the gospel world. His songs were embraced by mainstream artists, including Whitney Houston, who famously recorded “I Love the Lord” for The Preacher’s Wife soundtrack, and Destiny’s Child, who honored his work with a moving a cappella version of “Total Praise” in their 2007 “Gospel Medley.” These moments helped introduce his music to new audiences while keeping its spiritual heart intact.
Born in Atlanta in November 1948 and raised in Washington, D.C., Smallwood showed musical talent at an early age. He began playing piano at just five years old and formed his first gospel group by age 11. Music was not just a passion—it was his calling. He later studied music at Howard University, where he became part of the school’s first gospel group, the Celestials.
In 1977, he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, a group that would shape modern gospel sound. Their debut album spent an impressive 87 weeks on the Billboard Spiritual Album Sales chart. Over time, Smallwood earned eight Grammy nominations and won multiple Dove and Stellar Awards, building a reputation for blending deep faith with rich musical arrangements.
After disbanding the Singers in the early 1990s, Smallwood formed Vision, a backing choir that supported him on several albums. His song “Trust Me” became one of his final charting successes and earned his last Grammy nomination in 2012.
In 2019, Smallwood shared his life story in his autobiography Total Praise, offering fans a closer look at his faith, struggles, and triumphs. He is survived by his siblings, extended family, and godchildren.
Though his voice is now silent, Richard Smallwood’s music will continue to lift hearts and inspire faith for years to come.
