The world mourns the passing of Cissy Houston, a gospel music legend and the mother of the late Whitney Houston. Cissy died peacefully at the age of 91 on a Monday morning, surrounded by her family in her New Jersey home.

For decades, she captivated audiences with her soulful voice, and her contribution to music spanned multiple generations and genres. Now, as we reflect on her life and legacy, many wonder what Cissy Houston’s net worth was at the time of her passing.

A Lifelong Dedication to Music

Cissy Houston was born Emily “Cissy” Drinkard on September 30, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey. She grew up as the youngest of eight siblings, and from a very young age, she was immersed in music. Her family was deeply involved in the church, and it was in this setting that Cissy’s extraordinary vocal talent began to shine. Her journey into the world of professional music started with her gospel group, the Drinkard Singers, which she formed with her siblings.

In the 1960s, Cissy took a significant step forward in her career when she became a founding member of the R&B group, The Sweet Inspirations. The group earned a reputation for providing backup vocals to some of the biggest names in the music industry, including Otis Redding, Dusty Springfield, and Van Morrison. Their contributions are notably heard on Morrison’s hit “Brown Eyed Girl” and Aretha Franklin’s “Ain’t No Way,” where Cissy’s operatic soprano part added a distinctive depth.

However, by 1969, Cissy decided to focus on her solo career and spend more time with her family, including her young daughter Whitney, who would later go on to become one of the world’s most iconic singers.

Solo Career and Grammy Wins

After departing The Sweet Inspirations, Cissy Houston’s solo career flourished. Her voice, known for its range and versatility, allowed her to cross genres seamlessly. Over the years, she worked with major artists like Elvis Presley, Chaka Khan, and Paul Simon, solidifying her place in music history.

Cissy achieved significant success in the gospel music world, winning two Grammy Awards in the late 1990s. In 1997, she won her first Grammy for Face to Face, which was followed by another Grammy in 1998 for He Leadeth Me. These accolades underscored her enduring impact on gospel music and her reputation as a powerhouse vocalist.

Throughout her career, Cissy also continued to be a beloved figure at her local New Hope Baptist Church, where she led the Youth Inspirational Choir for over five decades. Her influence extended beyond the recording studio and stage, shaping the lives of young singers and performers.

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A Family of Musical Legends

Cissy Houston was more than just a solo artist—she was the matriarch of a family deeply rooted in music. Her daughter, Whitney Houston, rose to global stardom in the 1980s and 1990s, becoming one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Cissy often performed with Whitney, and the two shared a deep bond through their music.

In addition to Whitney, Cissy’s family includes other well-known musicians like her nieces Dionne Warwick and Dee Dee Warwick. Music ran through the veins of the Drinkard family, and Cissy stood as the guiding light for generations of singers.

Sadly, Cissy experienced immense personal losses. In 2012, Whitney Houston tragically passed away, and just a few years later, Whitney’s daughter, Bobbi Kristina, also died. Despite these heartbreaking tragedies, Cissy continued to draw strength from her faith and her music, leaving behind an enduring legacy.

Cissy Houston’s Net Worth at the Time of Her Passing

At the time of her death, Cissy Houston’s net worth was estimated at $6 million. This wealth accumulated through her decades-long career as a singer, both as a backup vocalist and a solo artist. While Cissy’s fame never reached the heights of her daughter Whitney’s, her contributions to music were invaluable, and she remained a revered figure within the industry.

Cissy’s financial success can be traced back to her collaborations with musical giants like Elvis Presley, Aretha Franklin, and Burt Bacharach. Additionally, her Grammy-winning gospel albums helped boost her profile and earnings. Beyond her musical achievements, Cissy also authored several books, including Remembering Whitney: A Mother’s Story of Life, Loss and The Night the Music Stopped, which offered a personal glimpse into her relationship with her famous daughter.

Legacy of a Gospel Icon

Cissy Houston’s passing marks the end of an era for gospel music and for a family whose name is synonymous with extraordinary talent. Her voice, which echoed through churches and concert halls alike, will continue to inspire musicians and fans for years to come.