There has always been a connection between gospel and secular music and some of the most popular artists have gotten their start singing in the church choir before making a name for themselves in mainstream music. For more on the black church, check out the new Moguldom Studios documentary “Black Church Inc.” available on iTunes and Google Play now.
Whitney Houston
Dubbed “The Voice,” Whitney Houston’s powerful pipes helped her become one of the best-selling singers of all time. But before she conquered the world of R&B and crossed over to become an international pop icon, the “I Will Always Love You” singer honed her natural talents at the church. She first stood in the spotlight singing in the choir at the New Hope Baptist Church in Newark, New Jersey where her mother was the choir director. After suddenly passing away in 2012, Houston returned to her childhood church for her homegoing service.
