Story perspectives

Gospel Pioneer Richard Smallwood Dies at 77

1/1/2026

Summary

Richard Smallwood Remembered

Richard Smallwood died at age 77 from kidney failure in Sandy Spring, Maryland.
He pioneered blending gospel with classical influences and founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, later forming Vision.
"Total Praise" became a widely performed modern hymn across church denominations.
Tributes poured in from artists including Chaka Khan and Senator Raphael Warnock, who hailed him as a musical genius.
Smallwood's legacy continues through his compositions and the lives he touched.

Summary

Richard Smallwood Passes

Richard Smallwood, the gospel singer, died at 77 from kidney failure in Sandy Spring, Maryland.
His family announced the news on his Facebook page, asking for privacy.
He founded the Richard Smallwood Singers and earned multiple Grammy nominations.
Senator Raphael Warnock praised him as a "musical genius" on social media.
He is survived by two brothers and three foster sisters.

History

Historical Context

Founded in 1970, the Gospel Music Association has played a crucial role in promoting gospel music. Richard Smallwood, born in 1948, significantly influenced the genre by blending gospel with classical elements. His hymn "Total Praise," composed in 1996, became widely popular, showcasing the genre's evolution. Smallwood's passing in 2025 marks a profound loss for the gospel community and American music.

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Richard Smallwood Remembered

Richard Smallwood died at age 77 from kidney failure in Sandy Spring, Maryland.
He pioneered blending gospel with classical influences and founded the Richard Smallwood Singers, later forming Vision.
"Total Praise" became a widely performed modern hymn across church denominations.
Tributes poured in from artists including Chaka Khan and Senator Raphael Warnock, who hailed him as a musical genius.
Smallwood's legacy continues through his compositions and the lives he touched.

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