Legendary singer Dionne Warwick has spoken publicly for the first time since the passing of her aunt, Cissy Houston. Houston, the mother of Whitney Houston and a Grammy-winning artist herself, passed away on Monday at the age of 91 in Newark, New Jersey, after battling Alzheimer’s disease.
Warwick, 83, took to social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter, on Tuesday to express her grief and offer a heartfelt tribute. “I’m so deeply saddened, however, knowing that my Aunt Cissy died peacefully and that she is in a much better place, is a consolation and comfort to me,” Warwick shared. “I have seen your messages of condolences. On behalf of my family, thank you.”
Houston Family Legacy and Musical Bonds
Both Warwick and Houston grew up in New Jersey and started their careers in the family gospel group, The Drinkard Singers. Reflecting on those days, Warwick said in a 2022 interview, “I called her Aunt Cissy growing up. Because we were so close in age, I always looked at her as an older sister. It was heaven when we all sang together.”
Houston’s talent extended to the next generation, as her daughter Whitney followed in her footsteps. Warwick acknowledged this, saying, “Whitney came up exactly the way we all did, in the church choir. It was just preordained, she was going to sing.”
Cissy Houston’s illustrious career spanned over seven decades. She worked as a backup singer for stars like Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin before earning two Grammy Awards for her solo gospel work. Her influence on both the music industry and her family is undeniable.
Cissy’s death comes 12 years after the tragic passing of her daughter, Whitney, in 2012. The Houston family has lost its matriarch, with Cissy’s daughter-in-law, Pat Houston, confirming her peaceful death surrounded by loved ones. In a family statement, Pat shared, “Mother Cissy has been a strong and towering figure in our lives… Her more than seven-decade career in music and entertainment will remain at the forefront of our hearts.”
As the family grieves, Warwick’s tribute captures the deep connection and love they shared, marking the end of an era for a musical dynasty.