Singer Of “Oh Happy Day”, Hawkins, Dies At 74

Award-winning gospel singer Edwin Hawkins, popularly known for his globally known hymn, “Oh Happy Day,” has died at the age of 74.

Hawkins died on Monday at his California home after battling pancreatic cancer, US media reportedly referenced the late artiste’s publicist, Bill Carpenter.

The late songwriter was credited with being one of the founders of modern gospel music,

“Oh Happy Day” is an 18th-century hymn which Hawkins arranged in a call and response style.

A single credited to the Edwin Hawkins Singers became a huge hit in 1969, and a year later the ensemble won a Grammy for best soul gospel performance for that song.

Hawkins won four Grammies over the course of his career.