What is Cissy Houston Net Worth?
| Net Worth: | $6 million |
|---|---|
| Source of Wealth: | Singer |
| Date of Birth: | September 30th, 1933 |
| Country of Origin: | United States |
| Last Updated: | 2024 |
Cissy Houston Net Worth: Cissy Houston is a renowned American soul and gospel singer with an estimated net worth of $6 million. Her illustrious career spans decades, beginning as a backup singer for iconic artists like Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin.
Houston’s journey into solo success and her contributions as a leading figure in the gospel music scene further solidified her financial and artistic legacy. She is also celebrated as the mother of Whitney Houston, adding to her prominence in the music industry.
Early Life
Cissy Houston, born Emily Drinkard on September 30, 1933, in Newark, New Jersey, to Delia Mae McCaskill Drinkard and Nicholas Drinkard, embarked on a journey that would lead her to become a revered figure in the music industry. Her life, deeply rooted in the Methodist Episcopal tradition, began to take a unique turn towards music at an early age, influenced by her family’s relocation to New Jersey during the Great Migration.
The tragic loss of her mother to a cerebral hemorrhage in 1941 and her father to stomach cancer in 1952 deeply impacted Houston, propelling her to live with her sister Lee and the Warrick family. This cemented her early exposure to music and performance.
Houston’s musical beginnings were nurtured within the walls of the church, where she “found Christ” at 14, laying the groundwork for her profound spiritual and musical journey. Her education at South Side High School further shaped her early life.
However, it was her family’s encouragement and the church’s influence that truly kindled her musical aspirations.
Cissy Houston’s journey from humble beginnings in Newark to becoming a celebrated figure in gospel and soul music is a narrative of resilience, talent, and unwavering faith. Her contributions to music and her enduring legacy, particularly in gospel music, continue to inspire generations of musicians and fans alike.
Career
Cissy Houston’s illustrious career commenced in the late 1930s with her participation in the Drinkard Four, a gospel singing group formed with her siblings. This group evolved into The Drinkard Singers, gaining prominence and marking Houston’s early foray into music.
Her television debut came through this ensemble, showcasing her talent to a wider audience and setting the stage for her legendary status in gospel music.
The formation of the Sweet Inspirations in 1963, alongside Doris Troy and niece Dee Dee Warrick, marked a pivotal moment in Houston’s career. This group became a cornerstone in the music industry, providing backup vocals for iconic artists such as Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett, and Aretha Franklin, and even performing alongside Elvis Presley.
Houston’s solo career also flourished during this time, with her first secular record released under the name Cecily Blair, leading to several successful singles and albums that showcased her versatility and depth as an artist.
Houston’s impact extended beyond performance. Her work as a session musician brought her talents to a vast array of recordings, further cementing her legacy in the music world. Her contributions to gospel music were recognized with Grammy Awards, underscoring her influence and achievements in the genre.
Cissy Houston net worth is estimated to be $6 million as of 2024.
Career Highlights
- 1963: Formation of the Sweet Inspirations and significant contribution to the backup vocals for numerous iconic artists.
- 1967: Participation in backing vocals for The Jimi Hendrix Experience’s track “Burning of the Midnight Lamp”.
- 1969: Key role in Elvis Presley’s comeback to live performances, providing backing vocals.
- 1970: Release of her debut solo LP “Presenting Cissy Houston”, marking the beginning of a successful solo career.
- 1996 & 1998: Winning Grammy Awards for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album for “Face to Face” and another album, showcasing her gospel music prowess.
Personal Life
Cissy Houston’s personal life is a testament to her resilience and dedication, not only to her craft but also to her family. With the loss of her parents at a young age, Houston was thrust into a world where music became both a refuge and a calling.
Her marriage and the birth of her children, including her daughter Whitney Houston, played a significant role in shaping her life and career decisions. Houston’s devotion to her family was evident in her decision to leave Sweet Inspirations to focus on raising her children.
Her role as a mother, coupled with her remarkable career, highlights the balance she maintained between her personal and professional lives, making her story even more inspiring.
Also Read: Nate Berkus Net Worth & Achievements
Awards and Achievements
Cissy Houston’s career is a remarkable journey through the realms of gospel, pop, and blues music, distinguished by her profound impact on the industry and a legacy of musical brilliance. Her journey commenced in 1938 with the Drinkard Singers, a gospel group that marked the inception of her musical voyage, leading to her television debut on TV Gospel Time.
This early exposure paved the way for her involvement with the Sweet Inspirations in 1963, a group that provided backup vocals for iconic artists like Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, and Elvis Presley, and even performed with The Jimi Hendrix Experience. The Sweet Inspirations’ contribution to the music world was significant, with performances alongside Elvis Presley in Las Vegas being a highlight of Houston’s career with the group.
Houston’s solo career took flight in the late 1960s, showcasing her versatility across genres with albums that included covers hitting the R&B charts. She achieved notable success with “Think It Over,” climbing the Billboard R&B chart in 1979, and represented the USA at the World Popular Song Festival the same year, securing the “Most Outstanding Performance Award.”
Cissy Houston’s journey is not just a tale of personal achievement but a testament to her influence on the music world and her role in shaping the careers of future generations, including her daughter Whitney Houston. Her awards and achievements reflect a lifetime of sharing her talents and inspiring others, both through her music and her dedication to her community.
Cissy Houston Net Worth
Cissy Houston’s net worth is estimated to be $6 million reflects her extensive career in the music industry and beyond. Her financial success stems from a multifaceted career that includes singing, acting, and television production.
Primarily, Houston earned her wealth through her work as a soul and gospel singer. Starting her career as a backup singer for renowned artists like Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin, Houston not only gained significant exposure but also honed her craft alongside some of the biggest names in music.
Houston’s transition to a solo career marked another significant phase in her income generation. Her solo work has been critically acclaimed, with albums that have touched on soul, gospel, and even disco, showcasing her versatility and earning potential within the industry.
Notably, her album “Presenting Cissy Houston” and singles such as “I’ll Be There” and “Be My Baby” have contributed to her financial success.
Houston also leveraged her experience and reputation to work as a session musician, further contributing to her income. Her collaborations with artists across various genres, from Bette Midler and Linda Ronstadt to Burt Bacharach and Herbie Mann, have underscored her demand and influence within the music scene.
Cissy Houston net worth is estimated to be about $6 million, this is inclusive of her wealth in real estate.
Charity & Philantropy
Cissy Houston has supported significant causes through her involvement with charities like the American Heart Association and the American Stroke Association. Her charitable efforts are focused on health-related issues, demonstrating her commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others.
This aligns with her lifelong dedication to sharing her talents and supporting her community, further highlighting her multifaceted contributions beyond her musical achievements.
Notable Cissy Houston’s Quotes
Life Lessons to Learn From Cissy Houston’s Success
1. The Power of Faith
Cissy Houston’s unwavering faith has been a cornerstone of her strength, both personally and professionally. This lesson teaches us the importance of having something to believe in, something that gives us strength and hope, especially during challenging times.
2. Parenthood Is Unpredictable
This statement by Cissy Houston serves as a poignant reminder that the journey of parenthood is fraught with unpredictability. Despite the best efforts, love, and intentions of parents, children may choose paths that diverge from expectations. This lesson encourages parents to offer guidance and love but also recognize the individuality and autonomy of their children.
3. Acceptance of Life’s Uncertainties
Cissy Houston’s acceptance of life’s uncertainties and her trust in a higher plan teach us the value of surrendering to the things we cannot control. In life, there will be events and outcomes that we cannot predict or influence, and learning to accept them with grace can lead to inner peace and resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions – Cissy Houston Net Worth
How long was Cissy Houston with Elvis?
Cissy Houston’s involvement with Elvis Presley primarily occurred during her time with the Sweet Inspirations, where they provided backing vocals for Presley, particularly during his Las Vegas performances in 1969.
How old is Cissy Houston?
Cissy Houston was born on September 30, 1933, making her 90 years old as of 2024.
Is Cissy Houston Whitney Houston’s biological mother?
Yes, Cissy Houston is the biological mother of the late Whitney Houston. Whitney Houston was a renowned singer and actress, whose talent and legacy continue to be celebrated.
Also Read: John Lithgow Net Worth & Achievements
Final Thoughts
Cissy Houston’s net worth of $6 million is a testament to her remarkable career in the music industry and her savvy investments, possibly including real estate. Her journey from a backup singer for legendary artists like Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin to a celebrated solo artist and Grammy Award winner demonstrates her versatility and enduring appeal.
Beyond her music career, Houston’s potential investments in real estate and her role as a session musician have contributed to her financial stability and growth..
As of 2024, Cissy Houston net worth is estimated to be $6 million.