Tributes have been paid to Whitney Houston's mother and Gospel music legend Cissy Houston, has died aged 91.
Born Emily Drinkard, Cissy started her musical career with her vocal group Drinkard Four with her sister Anne, and brothers Larry and Nicky.
She also later formed a group called Sweet Inspirations in 1963.
The group which also included Emily's niece Dee Dee Warwick went on to provide backing vocals for artists like Cissy's niece Dionne Warwick (Cissy's niece), Van Morrison, Otis Redding, Aretha Franklin, Jimi Hendrix, as well as Elvis Presley during his Las Vegas residencies.
In 1970, Emily Drinkard set off on a solo career, rebranding herself as Cissy Houston, becoming a key figure in gospel music, winning two Grammy Awards for Best Traditional Soul Gospel Album in 1997 and 1999.
Cissy also recorded backing vocals for artists like Paul Simon, Chaka Khan, Beyoncé and more.
“Our hearts are filled with pain and sadness. We loss the matriarch of our family", Pat said in her statement.
She also added: “Mother Cissy has been a strong and towering figure in our lives. A woman of deep faith and conviction, who cared greatly about family, ministry, and community. Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts".
"Her contributions to popular music and culture are unparalleled. We are blessed and grateful that God allowed her to spend so many years with us and we are thankful for all the many valuable life lessons that she taught us. May she rest in peace, alongside her daughter, Whitney and granddaughter Bobbi Kristina and other cherished family members".
Paying tribute to Cissy, former son in law Bobby Brown shared this statement.
“Sending love and blessings to the Houston family on this great loss. May she rest in Peace and Power. The Browns".
See more tributes here.
