In celebration and recognition of women who have made a difference in the world through their chosen art form, the Riverside Theatre hosted an event on April 26 honoring Dr. Cissy Houston with its fourth annual Women of Excellence in the Arts Award.
During the event, Houston discussed her extensive career and recently released book, “Remembering Whitney.” Houston is a Grammy-winning soul and gospel singer, and the mother of late superstar Whitney Houston. She gained fame as part of the Drinkards, a family gospel group, and revolutionized the background singers industry as the founder and leader of Sweet Inspirations, a well-respected vocal group who provided background vocals for such artists as Luther Vandross, Wishbone Ash, Aretha Franklin, Dusty Springfield and Elvis Presley. She later enjoyed a successful career as a solo artist.
Houston grew up in Newark, N.J.,where she raised her family. She still lives in the area.