On October 8th, 1964, a gift to the world was given to us. Gospel music sensation CeCe Winans was born.
During the 1960s and 1970s, hit songs like The Clark Sisters’ “You Brought the Sunshine,” Edwin Hawkins"”Oh Happy Day,” Andrae Crouch’s, “Take Me Back” and Aretha Franklin’s version of “I’ll Say A Little Prayer,” which reached to #4 on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1967. The works of these artists and others, paved the way for the evolution of Gospel music in mainstream music.
In the 80’s and 90’s through unique harmonies, tone, and a R&B aesthetic, CeCe Winans, along with her siblings and other Gospel artists, did what seemed impossible. They ushered Gospel music further into mainstream and secular settings. We saw artists like CeCe and BeBe Winans on the airwaves of R&B stations as the norm. They became household names.
Not to mention they were a part of the music video revolution —with their videos showing up on a variety of video shows on BET Television Network. This was a rare feat for a Gospel artist to accomplish at the time, and even now.
She has released 12 lifegiving albums, independently, including a compilation album. They include: Alone in His Presence (1995), Everlasting Love (1998), His Gift (1998), Alabaster Box (1999), CeCe Winans (2001), Throne Room (2003), Purified (2005), Thy Kingdom Come (2008), Songs of Emotional Healing (2010), Let Them Fall in Love (2017), and Something’s Happening (2018).
Albums with her brother BeBe include: Lord Lift Us Up (1984), BeBe & CeCe Winans (1987), Heaven (1988), Different Lifestyles (1991), First Christmas (1993), Relationships (1994), Greatest Hits (1996), The Best of BeBe & CeCe Winans (2006), and Still (2009).
Winans, independently, and with her brother BeBe, has received over 60 major music awards. These awards include twelve Grammy Awards, Dove Awards, NAACP Awards, Stellar Awards, Soul Train Music Awards, an Essence Award and more. In 2011, Mrs. Winans was inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Winans’ commitment to Gospel music and the inspirational messages it shares has resulted in over 12 million albums worldwide.
Her incomparable physical beauty, elegance and splendid messages have garnered respect by those of all backgrounds and cultures. There are not many secular or Gospel artists around that has accomplished as much as she has in her short 54 years.
We celebrate your hardwork and commitment to inspiring people to have hope and faith in God and each other. Take a look at these awards! You are a gift to the world, CeCe Winans!