Andrae Crouch Dies – Legendary Gospel Singer Dead At 72

Gospel music legend and singer Andrae Crouch passed away on Jan. 8. He was 72. Andrae Crouch, a seven-time Grammy winner and gospel music icon, died on Jan. 8 at the age of 72. The singer had been hospitalized since Jan. 3. Andrae was best known for his work with his choir, The Disciples, and collaborating with Michael Jackson and Madonna.

Andrae had been taken to Northridge Hospital Medical Center in California on Jan. 3 after suffering a heart attack, his publicist, Brian Mayes, said, according to the Associated Press. He passed away on Jan. 8. Over the course of long career , Andrae was awarded seven Grammys.

He had worked with singers like Diana Ross and Ringo Starr. His choir, The Disciples, sang background forMadonna’s song, “Like a Prayer,” and he helped Michael Jackson arrange his song, “Man in the Mirror.” Elvis Presleyperformed his song “I’ve Got Confidence” for a gospel album in 1972, and Paul Simon sang “Jesus Is The Answer” for a live 1974 album.

Andrae earned an Academy Award nomination for arranging music for The Color Purple. He also arranged music for Disney’s The Lion King. Because of his success, Andrae was one of the few gospel singers to have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. The Recording Academy said in a statement that Andrae was “a remarkable musician and legendary figure” who was “fiercely devoted to evolving the sound of contemporary, urban gospel music.”

Andrae and his sister, Sandra Crouch, were pastors at the New Christ Memorial Church in San Fernando. Andrae had an incredible career that touched so many lives. He will be so missed. Our thoughts are with Andrae’s family and friends during this difficult time.