Grammy-Winning Gospel Artist Richard Smallwood Passes Away

Richard Smallwood, a renowned gospel artist and composer, passed away on December 30, 2025, at the age of 77. His death occurred at 12:36 AM at the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center due to complications from kidney failure.

Legacy of a Grammy-Winning Gospel Artist

Over his illustrious career, Smallwood received eight Grammy nominations. He also garnered three Dove Awards and several Stellar Gospel Music Awards. His contributions to gospel music are celebrated, particularly songs like “Total Praise,” which gained prominence after being covered by various artists, including Destiny’s Child and Whitney Houston.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born on November 30, 1948, in Atlanta, Georgia, Smallwood was primarily raised in Washington, D.C. His mother, Mabel, and his stepfather, Rev. Chester Lee “CL” Smallwood, were influential figures in his life. By the age of five, he began playing the piano. He later formed his own gospel group as a teenager and graduated cum laude from Howard University with a music degree.

Career Highlights

• Founded the Richard Smallwood Singers in 1977.
• Released the album “The Richard Smallwood Singers” in 1982, which spent 87 weeks on Billboard’s Spiritual Albums chart.
• Achieved significant hits with tracks such as “I Love the Lord,” “Total Praise,” and “Center of My Joy.”
• Performed internationally, including a groundbreaking concert tour in the Soviet Union during the late 1980s.

In 2001, “Total Praise” emerged as one of his most impactful works, written during a personal crisis. His album “Journey: Live in New York,” released in 2007, featured performances from well-known artists like Chaka Khan and Kelly Price. His final album, “Anthology,” launched in 2015, included the hit “Same God.”

Influence and Later Years

Smallwood’s influence extends beyond his musical achievements. He played a vital role in shaping contemporary gospel music, attracting a young following with his innovative sound. In 2019, he published his autobiography, “Total Praise,” sharing insights into his personal struggles and family history.

Despite facing health challenges in his later years, including mild dementia, Smallwood remained a beloved figure in gospel music. He is survived by his family and numerous godchildren, leaving behind a rich legacy that continues to inspire future generations.