With his songs covered by the likes of Whitney Houston, Aretha Franklin and Destiny’s Child, Richard Smallwood is one of gospel music’s towering figures. It all started in the ’80s, with The Richard Smallwood Singers, a legendary ensemble that introduced the world to his unique mix of country church traditionalism and progressive tendencies, such as classical-influenced choir arrangements and tight funk grooves. In addition to his singing, composing and arranging, Smallwood also is a bold collaborator; one of his most enduring pieces, “Center of My Joy”, was co-written with traditional Southern gospel icons Bill and Gloria Gaither.