There’s one less voice in the world of gospel music. David “Pop” Winans Sr., the Grammy-nominated head of the Winans Family, died yesterday in Nashville. He was 74.
According to a statement released by a publicist representing the family, Winans died at the Nashville hospice where he had been staying since January. The gospel singer suffered a stroke and a heart attack last October.
It was Winans’ solo album – Uncensored – that snagged him a Grammy nomination in 1999. Together with his wife Delores the two were nominated for their 1989 effort, Mom & Pop Winans.
Winan headed up a pretty remarkable musical family. His children include Bebe and CeCe Winans as well as four sons – Michael, Marvin, Carvin and Ronald – who perform as The Winans.
A native of Detroit, Winans began his journey to gospel acclaim at the age of 18 when he sang with a gospel quartet in the Motor City. However, fame didn’t immediately knock on Winans’ door and the singer worked several jobs, including stints as a barber, car salesman, taxi driver and custodian.
From a statement issued by the publicist:
“The Winans Family wishes to thank everyone for their prayers and continued support, but would appreciate privacy at this time.”
Memorial services are to be held at Detroit’s Perfecting Church on April 14 and 15.