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Bishop, legend of gospel music Rance Allen died at 71, the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) announced in a statement on Saturday. His cause of death is not yet known.
“God, who is omnipotent and omniscient, has summoned his servant, Bishop Rance Lee Allen, to eternal rest,” said the Pentecostal-Holiness Christian denomination organization.
“Bishop Allen was a world-renowned gospel artist and affectionately known as the ‘Father of Contemporary Gospel Music.’ Bishop Allen’s unique vocal ministry was an indispensable sound within the Church of God in Christ and Christendom. His gift transcended the boundaries of the musical genre as he remained a sought-after personality called to perform on global stages.
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Allen was the lead singer of the Detroit, Michigan gospel group along with his namesake, The Rance Allen group, who was formed with his brothers To M, Steve and Esau in 1970. The group was known for its characteristic blend of gospel, rock and soul music.
As a singer, Allen was known for his wide vocal range. He and his band performed alongside other gospel greats like Andraé Crouch, Marvin winans, Baby and Cece Winans, the Clark Sisters, Kirk franklin, Marvin sapp, Shirley Caesar and Donnie McClurkin.
The group also won two Stellar prices in 2012 for the Quartet of the Year and the Traditional Group / Duo of the Year.
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“Please pray for the family and friends of our esteemed Brother Bishop Dr. Rance Allen. He made the transition and we know his beautiful spirit will live on thanks to his worldwide musical heritage !! »Gospel singer Yolanda Adams wrote in an Instagram post. “His presence will certainly be missed.”
Kirk franklin also reacted to Allen’s death in a moving video posted to Instagram with the caption: “2020 just keeps breaking my heart.” The Grammy-winning musician, clearly in shock at the news, revealed that he had just finished writing and producing Allen’s new single. Sadly, Allen died before he could record the song together.
In its statement announcing his death, COGIC said that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Allen’s family will be holding a private memorial service. A ceremony for the public will be scheduled at a later date.
“During this time of uncertainty, we call for continued prayers as well as acts of emotional and spiritual support for the family,” the church body said.
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