In Memoriam: Andrae Crouch (1942-2015)

Musiqology would like to take the time to recognize the passing of a true legend, Andrae Crouch.

Born and raised in the Los Angeles area, in the 1970s Crouch was a contemporary of gospel greats such as the Hawkins family. His unique gospel sound and his work with gospel ensembles helped usher in a new era of gospel music that brought their message to larger secular audiences and greater mainstream acclaim. His work with Michael Jackson on “Man in the Mirror” and “Earth Song” and Madonna on “Like a Prayer” helped transform those compositions into soul-stirring anthems.

In his lifetime, Crouch won several Grammys and in 1985 he garnered an Oscar nomination for writing “God is Trying to Tell You Something” for The Color Purple.  However it would be a mistake to overlook Crouch’s dedication to the Christian community. After his father’s death, he became pastor of Christ Memorial Church of God in Christ. At the time of his passing he was the co-pastor, along with his sister, Sandra Crouch, of New Christ Memorial Church of God in Christ.

Today, we mourn the loss of Andrae Crouch, but honor his nearly fifty years of prolific composing, performing, and inspiring the masses.

Rest well, Andrae Crouch.