Edwin Hawkins, the gospel star which is well known for the super hit “Oh Happy Day” and as a major inspirational music artist, died on Monday, 16th January’18 at the age of 74. The legend died at his home in Pleasanton, California. According to the publicist Bill Carpenter, he had been suffering from pancreatic cancer. The Associated Press declared cancer the reason behind his death.
Hawkins was given the title of “founder of modern gospel music”. Many artists such as Aretha Franklin and Sam Cooke had become the superstars by adapting gospel sounds to pop lyrics. But, Hawkins got the commercial success while performing the music that only celebrated religious faith. Hawkins was a keyboardist, arranger, composer, and a choirmaster. Since his childhood, he had been performing along with his family in the church groups. In his 20’s, he helped in forming the Northern California State Youth Choir. Edwin Hawkins is still alive in the memories of his fans, loved ones, and family.