Edwin Hawkins, ‘Oh Happy Day’ Gospel Singer, Dies At 74

“Oh Happy Day” gospel singer Edwin Hawkins died on Monday after battling pancreatic cancer. He was 74.

GOSPEL SINGER EDWIN HAWKINS DEAD AT 74

Hawkins was best known for his groundbreaking gospel arrangements and won four Grammys over the course of his career. He is credited with transforming the contemporary gospel music scene into what it is today. His hit, “Oh Happy Day,” blended gospel and secular sounds, and became the first gospel song to reach the Top 40 charts. In 1969, it reached No. 2 on the Billboard R&B Singles chart and No. 4 on the Pop Singles chart.

Hawkins and his siblings were the stars of the Hawkins Family band. His brother Walter Hawkins, who died in 2010, taught themselves to play the keyboard at a young age, and recorded their first album to raise money for their church.

On Thursday, Hawkins’ family posted a request for prayers on his Facebook page. “Edwin is currently experiencing several health challenges,” it read. “We ask that you please send your support, love, well wishes and prayers of comfort and healing to Edwin and his loved ones at this time.”

Hawkins last recorded album, Testify, was released in 2008, though the musician continued to write and produce material for other gospel artists. His last performance was with the San Francisco Symphony, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, CeCe Winans, and Paula West in  December at the Holiday Soul concert.

“It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Edwin Hawkins –– a celebrated artist, innovator, and music icon,” the Hawkins Family said in a statement. “Though he will be greatly missed the world over, the message of love, life, and encouragement that he incorporated into his music gives us all the same hope that we’ll join him in heaven and sing ‘Oh Happy Day.'”

Many gospel artists posted about the tragic loss of Hawkins. “Edwin Hawkins was not only a musical hero to me but he came to be a mentor and a close friend,” said Grammy-winning singer/producer, Donald Lawrence. “His group also had a huge influence on Richard Smallwood who has known Edwin since Richard was 19 years old. Edwin changed the face of gospel music and helped create a fresh sounding genre that spread around the entire world. He was a humble and kind spirit that not only encouraged others who were privileged to meet him, but also inspired millions to be daring in their creativity.”