Richard Smallwood

Richard Lee Smallwood (1948–2025) was an American gospel songwriter, composer, arranger, singer, and pianist. Born in Atlanta, Georgia, and raised in Washington, D.C., he graduated cum laude from Howard University with degrees in classical vocal performance and piano. He was a founding member of the Howard University Gospel Choir, an experience that helped shape his musical direction. Smallwood formed the Richard Smallwood Singers in 1977 and later created the ensemble known as Vision in 1995. His music is noted for blending traditional gospel with classical, R&B, and choral compositions. Among his well-known recordings are the albums *The Richard Smallwood Singers*, *Psalms*, *Adoration*, *Rejoice*, and *Healing...Live in Detroit*. His catalog includes enduring songs such as "Total Praise," "Center Of My Joy," and "I Love The Lord." In 2004, Smallwood earned a Master of Divinity from Howard University School of Divinity and was ordained as a minister at Metropolitan Baptist Church in Washington, D.C. He was inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame in 2006. He also earned a Grammy Award for his work on *Handel's Messiah: A Soulful Celebration* and received a Dove Award.