Grammy-nominated singer Richard Smallwood has died.
He was 77.
According to multiple reports, Smallwood died from complications from kidney failure on Dec. 30. He was staying at a nursing home in Sandy Spring, Md.
A statement on his Facebook page also announced his death.
“We are saddened to announce the passing of world-renowned artist, songwriter, and musician Richard Smallwood,” the statement read. “The family asks that you respect our privacy during this difficult time, while helping to celebrate the legacy he leaves behind and the gifts he unselfishly shared with the world.”
Senator Raphael Warnock of Georgia was among those who took to social media to remember Smallwood.
“Richard Smallwood was a musical genius and giant of a figure in the church and the gospel music world,” Warnock wrote on X. “He was an inspiration to all who encountered his music. His songs got us through tough times, dark and difficult days. No grave can silence his voice. The melodies linger and the faith lives on!”
People Magazine reported that the Gospel music legend’s songs were covered by the likes of Whitney Houston, Boyz II Men and Destiny’s Child.
Smallwood was born in Atlanta but was raised in Washington, D.C. People said that his stepfather was the pastor of Union Temple Baptist Church, and Smallwood began playing the piano there at the age of 5.
R&B legend Roberta Flack was also one of his teachers in high school before she found fame, per People.
Smallwood founded the Richard Smallwood Singers in 1977 and the group was nominated for a Grammy in 1984 with its album, “Psalms.”
People reported that Smallwood’s final album, “Anthology,” was released in 2015, and that recent years he battled several health issues including “mild dementia” which kept him from recording new music.
