Why Does Richard Smallwood's 'Total Praise' Resonate Even With Atheists?

By Marcus Ellison, PowerVault Staff

A hush fell over the room as the first chords of Richard Smallwood's 'Total Praise' filled the air. There’s something about the way those notes drop that makes you want to pause, close your eyes, and just be. Whether you're in a packed church or alone at home, the anointing that Smallwood poured into his music hits you where you didn't even know you needed it. And now, with his passing on December 30, 2025, from kidney failure, the Black community is collectively feeling the weight of losing such a monumental figure in gospel music.

Richard Smallwood's music has always transcended the boundaries of religion, reaching into the hearts of even those who don't walk the faith-based path. The Washington Post recently reported on Smallwood’s passing, highlighting how 'Total Praise' continues to resonate with people who identify as atheists. Yes, you heard that right. The same song that calls on the Lord for strength is beloved by those who don’t necessarily believe in a higher power. Why? Because music like Smallwood's doesn’t just speak to the religious; it speaks to the human spirit.

For anyone who's grown up in a Black household, gospel music is more than just a genre. It's a lifeline. It's the soundtrack to Sunday mornings, family reunions, and the push you need when life gets a little too heavy. Richard Smallwood understood this, and he brought a level of sophistication and emotional depth to gospel that resonated beyond the pews. His melodies and harmonies were complex, yet soothing, providing an escapade into a realm where music and spirituality are one.

Richard Smallwood was not your average gospel musician. He was a trained classical pianist and composer who brought those skills into his music ministry, elevating the genre with his lush orchestrations and soul-stirring compositions. He didn't just create songs; he crafted symphonies of praise that could compel even the most cynical listener to pause and reflect.

At a time when gospel music is often stereotyped as simplistic or unsophisticated, Smallwood's achievements are a testament to the power of artistry. His 1987 album 'Psalms' went gold, a rare accomplishment for gospel music at the time, reflecting the universal appeal of his work. His music drew people in, not just because it was gospel, but because it was good.

But what is it about 'Total Praise' specifically that cuts across such diverse demographics? Perhaps it's the emotional range the piece covers, moving from gentle reassurance to intense exultation. The crescendo builds in a way that feels both inevitable and exhilarating. Or maybe it's the simple yet profound lyrics, 'You are the source of my strength, you are the strength of my life', that anyone can relate to, regardless of their spiritual beliefs.

The video below captures one of the many moments where 'Total Praise' has been performed, and it’s a must-watch for anyone curious about why this piece pervades so deeply.

Let's keep it real, there's also a certain level of nostalgia woven into 'Total Praise.' For many Black folks, it’s reminiscent of childhood Sundays spent in church with family, where the choir's harmonies were as comforting as a grandmother's embrace. It's the kind of song that invites you to experience a sense of community and belonging, even if only for its four-minute runtime.

Now, let's talk about the industry's response. When an artist like Smallwood passes, it forces the gospel community and the broader music world to reflect on how such enormous talent fits into the larger mix of Black cultural expression. Gospel music, despite being a cornerstone of Black culture, often doesn't get the same acknowledgment as other genres. The industry has historically marginalized gospel musicians, placing them into a niche category rather than considering their broader impact.

Richard Smallwood’s music doesn’t just speak to the religious; it speaks to the human spirit.

This brings us to the audience and the community. For those who follow Black celebrity culture, Richard Smallwood wasn't just a gospel artist; he was a cultural icon who managed to touch lives beyond the confines of his genre. The outpouring of love and remembrance on social media after his death shows that his influence was far-reaching. Tweets and posts from celebrities and everyday fans alike flooded timelines, each sharing personal stories of how Smallwood's music provided solace during difficult times.

The video below features another performance that captures the essence of why Smallwood's work resonates so widely.

As we move forward, the question remains: Who will take up the mantle that Richard Smallwood has laid down? In a time where the lines between musical genres are increasingly blurred, the potential for a new wave of gospel artists to break through is ripe. But it will require the industry to recognize and nurture this talent, giving it the platform it deserves.

Ultimately, Richard Smallwood’s legacy isn't confined to the gospel world. His music is a testament to the power of a well-crafted song to cross boundaries, challenge norms, and bring people together. He showed us that when music is authentic, it doesn't just resonate, it reverberates through time, leaving a lasting impact. As long as there are souls in need of comfort and joy, there will be room for the kind of transcendent art that Smallwood gave us.