A resolution honoring the life and legacy of Reverend Richard Smallwood, a world-class composer, pianist, and arranger.

This Senate resolution celebrates the remarkable life and enduring legacy of Reverend Richard Smallwood, a world-class composer, pianist, and arranger. Born in 1948, Reverend Smallwood displayed exceptional musical talent from a young age, formally training in piano and later co-founding Howard University's first gospel choir, the Celestials, while earning degrees in classical vocal performance and piano. His career flourished with the formation of the Richard Smallwood Singers in 1977, bringing a contemporary sound to gospel music and achieving significant success on Billboard charts and earning Grammy nominations. His signature compositions, such as "Total Praise" and "I Love the Lord," became iconic, defining his career and being performed by numerous acclaimed artists including Whitney Houston and Stevie Wonder. Reverend Smallwood's influence extended beyond performance, earning him 8 Grammy nominations and 3 Dove Awards, and leading to performances for multiple U.S. Presidents. He was ordained as a minister in 2004 and inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2006, leaving a lasting legacy rooted in faith-based worship that blends classical gospel music with themes of hope, healing, and resilience. The resolution formally mourns his passing, honors his contributions, and directs that copies be sent to his family, Howard University, and the Metropolitan Baptist Church.