First published 1998
Cissy Houston opens her heart in this dual collection that traces her path through faith and music. The first section, He Leadeth Me, follows Houston as she discovers how prayer transforms daily struggles into moments of grace. She moves through seasons of doubt and renewal, finding strength in hymns like "Deep River" and "Amazing Grace" that have anchored generations before her. Each chapter centers on a different spiritual milestone, from early morning prayers that change everything to quiet moments when she feels God's presence most clearly. The second section, Face to Face, brings Houston into direct conversation with her calling as both mother and artist. She wrestles with balancing worldly success against spiritual purpose, learning that music itself becomes a form of worship. Through both triumph and loss, Houston discovers that faith requires daily choice rather than single conversion. The book closes with her understanding that being somebody means serving something greater than fame or recognition.
Genres: christian, african-american, autobiography, religion, biography-memoir, spirituality, music, christian-living
Vibes: emotional, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: found-family, personal-journey
Alfred Music