The Story Of The Edwin Hawkins Singers' 'Oh Happy Day'

Edwin Hawkins, "Oh Happy Day" gospel singer, dead at 74

The Edwin Hawkins' Singers - Oh Happy Day

Today, we remember Gospel star Edwin Hawkins who died January 15, 2018 from pancreatic cancer at age 74. He recorded and arranged the hymn "Oh Happy Day" with his Northern California State Youth Choir. This led to a record deal, the choir was renamed The Edwin Hawkins Singers, and the song became the first traditional gospel tune to become a pop hit, reaching #4 in America and #2 in the UK! Here’s a throwback performance of The Hawkins family performing that classic hit. #thestellars @thestellar

That moment when your chorus is singing "Oh Happy Day" with its legendary songwriter, Edwin Hawkins, at the historic Apollo Theater, and the one and only sonic enchantress Gladys Knight herself stage-bombs the rehearsal!! Needless to say, these five minutes remain one of the highlights of my very existence!!! I can think of NO better way to celebrate #BlackHistoryMonth than this.... SONG: "Oh Happy Day" by Edwin Hawkins SOLOS: Edwin Hawkins, Kevin T., & Gladys Knight FILMED BY: Ms. Lisa #blackhi