Richard Smallwood was a titan of American gospel music, a classically trained pianist, and a composer whose works bridged the gap between the sanctuary and the symphony hall. With a career spanning over five decades, he revolutionized the genre by infusing traditional gospel with intricate classical arrangements, creating a sound that was both intellectually rigorous and spiritually profound. His passing on December 30, 2025, marked the end of an era for gospel music, but his masterpieces, particularly the global anthem “Total Praise,” ensure his voice will echo in choirs forever.

Quick Facts Overview

• Full Name: Richard Lee Smallwood
• Birth Year: 1948 (November 30)
• Death Date: December 30, 2025
• Place of Birth: Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.
• Profession: Gospel Singer, Composer, Pianist, Arranger
• Known For: “Total Praise,” “Center of My Joy,” “I Love the Lord”
• Religion: Christian
• Net Worth (Estimated): $10 Million
• Status: Deceased

Who Is Richard Smallwood?

Richard Smallwood was one of the most influential gospel artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. A graduate of Howard University, he was a visionary who refused to see boundaries between musical genres. While many gospel artists of his time focused on traditional call-and-response structures, Smallwood introduced the grandeur of Baroque and Romantic classical music to the Black church experience. He was a Grammy-winning artist whose songs were covered by pop icons like Whitney Houston and Destiny’s Child, validating his crossover appeal. Beyond the music, he was a courageous advocate for mental health, breaking stigmas within the religious community by openly discussing his battles with clinical depression.

Early Life and Family Background

Born in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1948, Richard Smallwood was a child prodigy who began playing the piano by ear at the age of five. He moved to Washington, D.C., as a child, where he was raised primarily by his mother, Mabel, and his stepfather, the Rev. Chester Lee Smallwood, who was the pastor of Union Temple Baptist Church.

His upbringing was a complex tapestry of musical immersion and personal challenge. While the church provided a spiritual foundation, Smallwood later revealed in his autobiography that his home life was difficult, marked by a strained relationship with his stepfather. Despite these hardships, his musical education was elite. He attended Howard University, where he was a classmate of Phylicia Rashad and Debbie Allen. At Howard, he studied piano and voice, eventually graduating *cum laude*. It was here that he helped found the university’s first gospel choir and became a member of The Celestials, the first gospel group to perform at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland.

Rise to Prominence / Career Journey

Smallwood’s professional ascent began in earnest in 1977 when he formed The Richard Smallwood Singers. The group’s sound was distinct—sophisticated, harmonically dense, and technically demanding. Their 1982 debut album, *The Richard Smallwood Singers*, spent an incredible 87 weeks on the Billboard Gospel chart.

The “Total Praise” Phenomenon

In the 1990s, Smallwood formed a new ensemble, Vision, which featured a larger choir sound. It was with Vision that he recorded “Total Praise” in 1996. Written during a time of immense personal grief and caregiving for his ailing mother, the song became a global standard. Its majestic, classically inspired structure led to it being performed not just in churches, but by orchestras and choirs worldwide.

Crossover Success

Smallwood’s influence extended into mainstream pop culture. Whitney Houston’s rendition of his song “I Love the Lord” for the film *The Preacher’s Wife* (1996) introduced his songwriting to millions of secular listeners. Similarly, Destiny’s Child covered “Total Praise,” further cementing his status as a songwriter whose work transcended genre.

Professional Influence

Richard Smallwood is often credited with “educating” the gospel ear. Before him, the fusion of Bach, Beethoven, and Chopin with gospel rhythms was rare. He normalized the use of classical counterpoint in gospel arrangements, influencing a generation of musicians including Kirk Franklin and Donald Lawrence.

His influence was not limited to composition. As a mentor, he shaped the sound of the “Washington, D.C. Gospel” scene, which is renowned for its technical precision. In 2006, his contributions were formally recognized with his induction into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame. He also won a Grammy Award for his production work on the star-studded project *Handel’s Messiah: A Soulful Celebration*.

Personal Life

Unlike many of his contemporaries, Richard Smallwood kept his private life relatively guarded for much of his career. He never married and had no children, often referring to his choir members and protégés as his extended family.

In his later years, specifically in his 2019 autobiography *Total Praise*, Smallwood opened up about his private struggles. He revealed a lifelong battle with clinical depression and anxiety, detailing moments where he struggled to get out of bed despite his public success. His transparency was revolutionary for a figure in the Black church, where mental health issues were often dismissed as a lack of faith. By sharing his testimony, he became a beacon of hope for believers suffering in silence.

Net Worth and Income Sources

At the time of his death in late 2025, Richard Smallwood’s net worth was estimated to be around $10 million.

• Music Royalties: As the sole writer of perennial classics like “Total Praise” and “Center of My Joy,” Smallwood earned significant publishing royalties. “Total Praise” alone is one of the most performed gospel songs in history.
• Touring: For decades, Smallwood and Vision toured extensively across the U.S., Europe, and even the Soviet Union.
• Book Sales: His autobiography added a literary stream of income in his later years.

Controversies or Public Criticism

Richard Smallwood’s career was remarkably free of the scandals that often plague public figures. He was known for his integrity and professionalism.

• Mental Health Advocacy: If there was any “controversy,” it was his bold decision to challenge the theological taboo regarding mental illness. Some traditionalists initially bristled at a gospel legend admitting to suicidal thoughts and the use of medication, but this criticism quickly turned into widespread admiration as his testimony saved lives.

Death

Richard Smallwood passed away on December 30, 2025, at the age of 77. He died at the Brooke Grove Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Sandy Spring, Maryland.

• Cause of Death: His publicist confirmed that the cause was complications from kidney failure.
• Health Decline: In the years leading up to his death, Smallwood had suffered from mild dementia and other health issues that limited his ability to perform and record.

Legacy and Public Perception

Richard Smallwood is remembered as the “Maestro of Gospel.” His legacy is twofold: musical and social. Musically, he expanded the harmonic vocabulary of gospel music, proving that the genre could hold the complexity of classical music without losing its anointing. Socially, he is revered as a compassionate truth-teller who taught the church that it is possible to love God and still need therapy.

Upon his death, tributes poured in from around the world, with fellow artists and fans describing him as a “gentle giant” whose music provided a soundtrack for their darkest nights and brightest mornings.

FAQs

When did Richard Smallwood die?

Richard Smallwood died on December 30, 2025, at the age of 77.

What is Richard Smallwood’s most famous song?

His most famous song is “Total Praise,” a worship anthem known for its powerful climax and classical arrangement.

Was Richard Smallwood married?

No, public records indicate that Richard Smallwood never married and did not have any children.

What was Richard Smallwood’s cause of death?

He died from complications related to kidney failure.

Did Richard Smallwood suffer from depression?

Yes, he was open about his battle with clinical depression and wrote about it extensively in his autobiography.

What college did Richard Smallwood attend?

He attended Howard University in Washington, D.C., where he studied piano and voice.

How much was Richard Smallwood worth?

His estimated net worth was approximately $10 million, largely due to his songwriting royalties and touring career.

Did Whitney Houston cover Richard Smallwood?

Yes, Whitney Houston recorded his song “I Love the Lord” for the soundtrack of the 1996 movie *The Preacher’s Wife*.

Conclusion

Richard Smallwood was more than a musician; he was a minister of sound who healed millions through his art. By marrying the discipline of classical training with the fervor of gospel, he created a unique musical language that spoke to the soul. His courage in facing his own mental health battles only deepened the public’s love for him. Though he has left this world, the opening chords of “Total Praise” will continue to lift spirits for generations to come.

In an era of polished pop-country and algorithm-driven hits, Zach Bryan has emerged as a raw, undeniable force of authenticity. A U.S. Navy veteran who wrote songs in his barracks before selling out stadiums, Bryan’s meteoric rise is a testament to the power of storytelling. With a voice that carries the weight of grief and the grit of the American heartland, he has bypassed traditional industry gatekeepers to become one of the most influential songwriters of his generation. From viral YouTube videos to Grammy-winning stardom, Bryan’s journey is not just a musical success story—it is a cultural phenomenon redefining the boundaries of modern country music.

Quick Facts Overview

• Full Name: Zachary Lane Bryan
• Birth Year: 1996 (April 2)
• Place of Birth: Okinawa, Japan (Stationed U.S. Navy Base)
• Profession: Singer-Songwriter
• Known For: Raw lyricism, “Something in the Orange,” “I Remember Everything,” anti-establishment industry stance
• Religion: Christian (Non-denominational/Personal Faith)
• Net Worth (Estimated): $25 Million – $30 Million
• Status: Alive

Who Is Zach Bryan?

Zach Bryan is an American singer-songwriter who seamlessly blends red-dirt country, folk, and rock. Unlike many of his contemporaries who rise through Nashville’s polished machine, Bryan built his massive following organically. He is characterized by his raspy voice, acoustic-driven melodies, and deeply personal lyrics that explore themes of loss, love, regret, and resilience. A former active-duty sailor, he transitioned from serving his country to serving a massive, devoted fanbase, earning critical acclaim and major awards while maintaining a fierce independence from industry norms.

Early Life and Family Background

Born on April 2, 1996, in Okinawa, Japan, Zachary Lane Bryan entered the world into a life of service; both his parents, Dewayne and Annette DeAnn Bryan, were stationed there with the U.S. Navy. This military background instilled a sense of discipline and transience in his early years.

The family eventually settled in Oologah, Oklahoma, a small town that would become the backdrop for much of his songwriting. His upbringing was deeply rooted in the working-class values of the Midwest. However, his life was marked by significant personal tragedy. His mother, Annette, passed away in 2016, a loss that became the emotional cornerstone of his artistic identity. He later named his debut album *DeAnn* in her honor, crediting her as his muse and “best friend.”

Following in his family’s footsteps, Bryan enlisted in the U.S. Navy at the age of 17. He served as an Aviation Ordnanceman, handling weapons and explosives for naval aircraft. It was during these years of service—often in spare moments in barracks or on base—that he began writing poems and songs to process his emotions.

Rise to Prominence / Career Journey

The Viral Spark (2017–2020)

Bryan’s career began not in a studio, but on an iPhone. In 2017, he started uploading grainy videos of his original songs to YouTube. His breakthrough moment came with the song “Heading South,” recorded outside his Navy barracks in humid Florida heat. The video, featuring a sweaty, passionate Bryan belting out lyrics about frustration and ambition, went viral, amassing millions of views without any marketing budget.

Capitalizing on this momentum, he recorded his debut album, *DeAnn* (2019), in an Airbnb with friends. It was stripped-back, raw, and imperfect—qualities that listeners craved. He followed this with *Elisabeth* (2020), another self-produced project that solidified his cult following.

Major Label Debut and Superstardom (2021–Present)

In 2021, Bryan was honorably discharged from the Navy after eight years of service to pursue music full-time. He signed with Warner Records, a move that worried some purist fans, but he retained significant creative control.

His major-label debut, “American Heartbreak” (2022), was a massive triple album featuring 34 tracks. It debuted at number five on the Billboard 200 and included the smash hit “Something in the Orange,” which spent weeks on the charts and crossed over into mainstream pop radio.

In 2023, he released his self-titled album *Zach Bryan*, which debuted at number one. The album featured the duet “I Remember Everything” with Kacey Musgraves, earning him his first Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. He continued his prolific output with the 2024 release of *The Great American Bar Scene*, further cementing his status as a relentless creator.

Political / Professional Influence

While Zach Bryan largely avoids explicit partisan politics, his professional conduct is deeply political in the context of the music industry. He has positioned himself as a champion of the working class and a critic of corporate greed.

Most notably, he waged a public battle against Ticketmaster, releasing a live album titled *All My Homies Hate Ticketmaster* (2022). He attempted to circumvent the ticketing giant’s dynamic pricing model to keep his concert tickets affordable for fans. Although he eventually had to return to using Ticketmaster for larger stadium tours due to logistical constraints, his efforts sparked a national conversation about monopoly power in live entertainment.

Culturally, he represents a shift away from “Bro-Country” toward a more introspective, folk-adjacent sound, influencing a new wave of artists who prioritize songwriting over radio playability.

Personal Life

Bryan’s personal life has often been as turbulent and intense as his music.

• Marriages: He was briefly married to Rose Madden, a woman he met in the Navy, from 2020 to 2021. The relationship ended in divorce.
• Relationships: He dated Deb Peifer before entering a high-profile relationship with Brianna “Chickenfry” LaPaglia, a podcaster for Barstool Sports, in July 2023. The couple’s relationship was public and often scrutinized. They announced their breakup in October 2024.
• Religion: Bryan frequently references God and redemption in his lyrics (e.g., “Revival,” “Burn, Burn, Burn”). While he does not fit the mold of a contemporary Christian artist, he has expressed a deep, personal faith. In 2024, it was reported that he purchased a historic church in Massachusetts, further highlighting his connection to spiritual spaces.

Net Worth and Income Sources

As of 2025, Zach Bryan’s estimated net worth sits between $25 million and $30 million.

• Touring: This is his primary revenue stream. His “Quittin’ Time Tour” sold out stadiums across North America, generating tens of millions in gross revenue.
• Streaming: With billions of streams across Spotify and Apple Music, his catalog generates substantial royalties.
• Merchandise: His “anti-merch” aesthetic has ironically sold incredibly well, with simple designs resonating with fans.
• Real Estate: Bryan owns properties in Oklahoma, Philadelphia, and Massachusetts, investing his earnings into tangible assets.

Controversies or Public Criticism

Despite his beloved status, Bryan has faced significant controversy:

• 2023 Arrest: In September 2023, Bryan was arrested in Vinita, Oklahoma, for “obstruction of investigation.” He interfered with a traffic stop involving his security guard, admitting later that he got “too lippy” with the officer. He released a video apology immediately after, which was largely accepted by fans and law enforcement.
• Breakup Allegations (2024): Following his split from Brianna LaPaglia, allegations surfaced regarding emotional abuse. LaPaglia claimed on her podcast that she was offered a substantial sum (rumored to be $12 million) to sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA), which she refused. She described the relationship as controlling, sparking a polarized debate online between his defenders and critics.

Legacy and Public Perception

Zach Bryan is widely regarded as the voice of a disillusioned but hopeful generation. He is credited with reviving the “outlaw” spirit of country music, drawing comparisons to legends like Willie Nelson and Johnny Cash. His legacy is defined by his refusal to compromise; he releases music when he wants, how he wants, often dropping surprise EPs or albums without traditional promotion.

To his fans, he is a relatable figure who turns messy, real-life emotions into art. To the industry, he is a disruptor who proved that an artist doesn’t need radio play to fill stadiums.

FAQs

What branch of the military did Zach Bryan serve in?

Zach Bryan served in the U.S. Navy for eight years as an Aviation Ordnanceman. He enlisted at 17 and was honorably discharged in 2021 to pursue music.

Is Zach Bryan religious?

Yes, but in a non-traditional sense. He frequently uses Christian imagery and themes of redemption in his songs (e.g., “Revival”). He identifies as a believer but distances himself from organized, dogmatic religion.

Who is Zach Bryan dating now?

As of early 2025, Zach Bryan appears to be single following his high-profile breakup with Brianna LaPaglia in October 2024.

Why was Zach Bryan arrested?

He was arrested in September 2023 in Oklahoma for obstruction of investigation. He intervened aggressively during a traffic stop involving his security guard. The charges were later resolved through a deferred prosecution agreement.

Does Zach Bryan write his own songs?

Yes, Zach Bryan writes all of his own music. He is celebrated for his prolific songwriting output, often writing songs in minutes and recording them shortly after.

What is Zach Bryan’s most famous song?

“Something in the Orange” is widely considered his breakout hit, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. “I Remember Everything” (feat. Kacey Musgraves) is his first number-one hit.

Where does Zach Bryan live?

While he is from Oologah, Oklahoma, he splits his time between properties in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Duxbury, Massachusetts.

Did Zach Bryan really try to take down Ticketmaster?

Yes. He released the live album *All My Homies Hate Ticketmaster* and attempted to run a tour bypassing the vendor to lower costs for fans. He eventually had to return to the platform for stadium-sized venues but remains a vocal critic of the industry’s ticketing practices.

Conclusion

Zach Bryan is more than a country singer; he is a storyteller who captured the zeitgeist of 2020s America. By rejecting the polish of Nashville for the grit of real life, he built an empire on honesty. From his humble beginnings writing songs in a Navy barracks to commanding the world’s biggest stages, his biography is a study in authenticity. As he continues to evolve, one thing remains constant: Zach Bryan writes what he lives, and the world is listening.