Tribute to Richard Smallwood: Celebrating a Gospel Music Pioneer
Rev. Richard L. Smallwood, a prominent figure in gospel music, passed away on December 30 at the age of 77. Born in Atlanta and raised in Washington, D.C., he was widely recognized as a composer and choral director.
Early Life and Education
Smallwood’s musical journey began early. He started playing the piano by ear at age five and received formal training by seven. By 11, he had formed his first gospel choir. Smallwood’s eighth-grade music instructor was notable artist Roberta Flack.
He attended Howard University, where he graduated cum laude in 1971 with dual degrees in classical vocal performance and piano. While there, he was a founding member of the Howard University Gospel Choir and participated in the university’s first gospel group, The Celestials.
Musical Career and Contributions
Smallwood significantly impacted gospel music. As the music director of Union Temple Baptist Church, he recorded his first albums: “Look Up and Live” (1974) and “Give Us Peace” (1976). In 1977, he founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, whose debut album was released in 1982 and spent an impressive 87 weeks on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums chart.
- 1982: Richard Smallwood Singers debut album released.
- 1984: Second album “Psalms” received a Grammy nomination.
Smallwood’s career reached new heights when Whitney Houston performed “I Love the Lord” for her film “The Preacher’s Wife,” showcasing his ability to blend gospel with mainstream music.
Later Achievements
Ordained in 2004, Smallwood became the Artist-in-Residence at the historic Metropolitan Baptist Church. He was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2006 and continued to release music until the 2010s, culminating in the album “Anthology Live” (2015).
- Eight Grammy nominations
- Three Dove Awards
- Seven Stellar Gospel Music Awards
On December 1, 2023, the Mayor of D.C. declared it “Richard Smallwood Day” in honor of his 75th birthday. President Joe Biden recognized him with the President’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Legacy and Tribute
In April 2024, Howard University hosted a tribute alongside alumna Elbernita “Twinkie” Clark, where Smallwood received the university’s Lifetime Achievement Award. He expressed gratitude for the role Howard played in his life.
Dean Kenyatta Gilbert and Interim President Wayne A. I. Frederick praised Smallwood’s impact through music and ministry, emphasizing his ability to draw listeners closer to God during challenging times. His legacy as a gospel music pioneer continues to resonate globally.
