Emily "Cissy" Houston (née Drinkard; born September 30, 1933) is an American soul, gospel singer. After a successful career singing backup for such artists as Elvis Presley and Aretha Franklin she embarked on a solo career, winning two Grammy Awards for her work. She is the mother of the late Whitney Houston, aunt of Dionne and Dee Dee Warwick, and a cousin of opera singer Leontyne Price.