U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock led a public ceremony on Capitol Hill to honor iconic gospel singer Richard Smallwood, who died in late December. Warnock honored the legendary artist as he stood alongside Senator Tim Scott, the Howard University Gospel Choir, and the Metropolitan Baptist Church Choir, Complex reported.

What were the festivities at the celebration for gospel singer Richard Smallwood?

The celebration of Smallwood was filled with faith, history, and musical performances. Warnock and his colleagues introduced a bipartisan Senate resolution to recognize Smallwood’s contributions to music and humanity. The event also featured powerful renditions of Smallwood’s legendary composition, “Total Praise.”

Warnock specifically highlighted Smallwood’s deep ties to Howard University and Metropolitan Baptist Church.

“Richard Smallwood was a proud Howard graduate,” Warnock said, adding that the institution is “the Mecca.”

He also called Smallwood “a son of the Black church,” “a musical genius,” and “a giant of the gospel music world.” Warnock noted that Smallwood’s songs helped carry people through hard times.

Who is Richard Smallwood?

Smallwood, who was born in Atlanta in 1948, grew up in Washington, D.C., and fell in love with music at an early age. He learned piano at age 5 and formed his first gospel group shortly after.

After earning a music degree from Howard University, he went on to form the Richard Smallwood Singers. His decorated career includes eight Grammy nominations and numerous prestigious awards.

Smallwood earned respect from fans around the world and from some of the biggest names in music. His song “I Love the Lord” was recorded by Whitney Houston for The Preacher’s Wife soundtrack. Destiny’s Child also paid tribute to him by featuring “Total Praise” in their a cappella “Gospel Medley” performance in 2007.

Smallwood died from complications related to kidney failure at age 77.