Cece Winans Biography
Cece Winans is an American gospel singer and author who was born and brought up in Detroit, Michigan, United States of America. She has garnered 15 Grammy Awards, the most for a female gospel singer; 31 GMA Dove Awards, 17 Stellar Awards, 7 NAACP Image Awards, along with many other awards and honors to her credit including being one of the inaugural inductees into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame.
Winans is considered one of the greatest gospel artists of all time, and is the most-awarded and best-selling gospel act of all time. She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and has 17 million record sales certified by RIAA, and over 19 million estimated in total sales as a solo artist.
In 1985, Winans released her first solo album ‘Alone in His Presence’ which earned her a Grammy Award and two Dove Awards, including the Female Vocalist of the Year. In 1998, she released her second album ‘Everlasting Love’ which featured her highest to date Billboard charting solo singles “Well Alright” and “Slippin”.
10 Quick Facts About Cece Winans
- Name: Cece Winans
- Age: 59 years old
- Birthday: 8 October
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
- Height: 5 feet 3 inches (1.59 m)
- Nationality: American
- Occupation: Gospel Singer and Author
- Marital Status: Married
- Salary: Under Review
- Net worth: $8 Million
Cece Winans Age
Winans is 59 years old. She was born on October 8, 1964, in Detroit, Michigan, United States. She celebrates her birthday on October 8 every year and her birth sign is Libra.
Cece Winans Height
Winans stands at a height of 5 feet 3 inches (1.59 m). Her body measurements are 34-25-34 inches.
Cece Winans Weight
Winans Weighs 59 kg (130 lbs). She has dark brown eyes and black hair.
Early Life and Education
Winans was born on 8 October 1964, in Detroit, Michigan. CeCe is the eighth of ten children born to Delores and David Winans, both devout members of the Church of God in Christ. Gospel music filled their home, with four of her older brothers forming the renowned group, The Winans.
Though formal education was important, music remained a driving force. While in high school, CeCe even skipped a grade to further pursue her musical ambitions. While Mumford High School provided a well-rounded education, CeCe’s real musical education came from singing in church, performing with her family, and soaking up the rich gospel tradition that surrounded her.
Rise to Fame
Early Steps:
Singing with Siblings: At a young age, CeCe joined her siblings in church choirs and family performances, soaking up the rich gospel tradition and honing her powerful vocals. Debut on “Praise the Lord”: At 17, CeCe and her brother BeBe joined Pat Robertson’s “Praise the Lord” show, gaining national exposure and showcasing their soulful harmonies.
Duo Stardom:
BeBe & CeCe: The brother-sister duo became a gospel force, their music reaching beyond the Christian market and finding mainstream success. Crossover Hit: Their single “I’ll Take Your Hand” in 1988 topped the Billboard Hot 100, making them the first gospel act to achieve such a feat.
Cece Winans Family, Parents
Winans was born to her father Pop Winans and mother Delores Winans in Michigan. Her parents are David “Pop” Winans Sr. , born on 20 April 1934 and died on 8 April 2009. Cece’s family is known as the Winans family which composes of gospel music artists from Detroit, Michigan.
Cece Winans Siblings
Winans has nine siblings, seven brother named BeBe Winans, Marvin Winans, Ronald Winans, Daniel Winans, Carvin Winans, Michael Winans, and David Winans Jr., and two sisters named Angelique Winans-Caldwell and Debra Renee Winans-Lowe.
Bebe and Cece Winans
Bebe and Cece are siblings, they are the seventh and eighth of the Winans family. They are an American gospel music duo and together they have received several awards including three Grammys.
They debuted in 1982 as part of the singing group The PTL Singers on the Christian television show The PTL Club. They recorded their first album,’ Lord Lift Us Up’ as a duo for PTL Records. They left the PTL singers in 1987 to pursue a musical career and were signed by Sparrow Records. Their mainstream debut release was the self-titled album ‘BeBe & CeCe Winans’.
Cece Winans Husband
Winans is currently married to her husband Alvin Love II. The couple tied the knot on June 23, 1984. They are blessed with two children named Ashley Love and Alvin Love III. Their children were featured in the BeBe & Winans music video “If Anything Ever Happened to You”. Winans resides in Brentwood, Tennessee, a suburb of Nashville alongside her husband Alvin.
Cece Winans Children
Winans and her husband Alvin Love II have two children together, a son named Alvin Love III and a daughter named Ashley Love. Alvin III is a songwriter and producer. He won a Grammy Award for Best Gospel Performance/Song.
Cece Winans Daughter
Cece’s daughter Ashley Love got married in September 2017.
Cece Winans Net Worth
Winans has an estimated net worth of $8 million dollars as of 2024. This includes her assets, money and income. Her primary source of income is her career as a gospel singer and author. Through her various sources of income, Cece has been able to accumulate a good fortune but prefers to lead a modest lifestyle.
Cece Winans Measurements and Facts
Here are some interesting facts and body measurements you should know about Winans.
Cece Winans Wiki
- Full Names: Priscilla Marie Winans
- Popular As: Cece Winans
- Gender: Female
- Occupation / Profession: Gospel Singer and Author
- Nationality: American
- Race / Ethnicity: Black
- Religion: Christian
- Sexual Orientation: Straight
Cece Winans Birthday
- Age / How Old?: 59 years old
- Zodiac Sign: Libra
- Date of Birth: 8 October 1964
- Place of Birth: Detroit, Michigan, USA
- Birthday: October 8
Cece Winans Body Measurements
- Body Measurements: 34-25-34 inches
- Height / How Tall?: 5 feet 3 inches (1.59 m)
- Weight: 59 kg (130 lbs)
- Eye Color: Dark Brown
- Hair Color: Black
- Shoe Size: Not Available
- Dress Size: 4 (US) or 34 (EU)
- Breast Size: 34 inches
- Waist Size: 25 inches
- Hip Size: 34 inches
Cece Winans Family and Relationship
- Father (Dad): David “Pop” Winans Sr.
- Mother: Delores Winans
- Siblings (Brothers and Sisters): BeBe, Marvin, Ronald, Daniel, Carvin, Michael, David Jr., Angelique -Caldwell, and Debra Renee -Lowe
- Marital Status: Married
- Wife/Spouse: Married to Alvin Love II
- Dating / Boyfriend: Not Applicable
- Children: Sons (Alvin Love III) Daughter(s) (Ashley Love)
Cece Winans Net Worth and Salary
- Net Worth: $8 Million
- Salary: Under Review
- Source of Income: Gospel Singer and Author
Cece Winans House and Cars
- Place of living: Brentwood, Tennessee, United States
- Cars: Car Brand to be Updated
Cece Winans Church
In 2011 Cece and her husband love founded Nashville Life Church where they both serve as senior pastors. She did an interview in 2017 where she said: ‘I am co-pastoring a church with my husband: Nashville Life Church in Nashville, Tennessee. This year we celebrated our fifth anniversary. And I just released a brand-new album titled Let Them Fall in Love. It’s my first released music in over nine years.
For the last five years, I’ve been really focused on the church. It’s taken up all of my time and heart and passion. There was a call that my husband and I answered; this was something that we had not planned on doing in our lives.
But we’ve been empowered to serve, so we are making disciples. That’s our focus for our church, to make disciples. The majority of the church is Millennials, which is very exciting. It’s a diverse church.
You see people from all walks of life and all different ethnic backgrounds. It’s pretty awesome what God is doing. I’m really, really busy these days, but I’m really, really happy. I’m trusting in the Lord. And whenever you lay down your life for him, he always shows up in an immeasurable way.’
Cece Winans Songs
- It Wasn’t Easy
- Waging War
- Alabaster Box
- Holy Spirit, Come Fill This Place
- Never Have to Be Alone
- Fill My Cup
- I Surrender All
- Blessed Assurance
- Mercy Said No
- More Than What I Wanted
- Jesus, You’re Beautiful
- He’s Concerned
- He’s Always There
- Alone in His Presence
- How Great Thou Art
- Hallelujah Praise
- His Strength Is Perfect
- Always Sisters
- More Than Just a Friend
- Well, Alright
- The Healing Part
- It’s Gonna Get Better
- Looking Back at You
- Anybody Wanna Pray
- Love of My Heart
- O Thou Most High
- We Welcome You
- Everlasting Love
- He’s Not on His Knees Yet
- Bring Back The Days Of Yea & Nay
- Comforter
- Oh Holy Place
Cece Winans Albums
- 2018: Something’s Happening! A Christmas Album
- 1987: BeBe & Winans
- 1993: First Christmas
- 1995: Alone in His Presence
- 1995: Waiting to Exhale
- 1998: Everlasting Love
- 1999: Alabaster Box
- 2003: Throne Room
- 2005: Purified
- 2007: Pure Worship (Winans Presents Pure Worship Performers)
- 2008: We All Are One (Live in Detroit)
- 2008: Thy Kingdom Come
- 2010: Songs Of Emotional Healing
- 2017: Let Them Fall in Love
Notable Travel, Events, and Experiences
Global Gospel Ambassador:
- Spreading the Message: CeCe’s music has transcended borders, taking her on tours across the globe. From packed stadiums in Africa to intimate gatherings in Asia, she has shared her powerful message of faith with millions worldwide.
- Cultural Immersion: Her travels aren’t just about performances. CeCe embraces local cultures, immersing herself in diverse traditions and finding inspiration in different musical styles. This global exchange infuses her music with a richness that resonates with audiences everywhere.
Memorable Performances:
- Singing for the Pope: In 2000, CeCe had the honor of performing for Pope John Paul II at the Vatican City’s Jubilee Celebration. This once-in-a-lifetime experience solidified her position as a global musical icon and a voice for her faith.
- Sharing the Stage with Legends: From collaborating with Whitney Houston on the soundtrack of “The Preacher’s Wife” to sharing the stage with Stevie Wonder and Yolanda Adams, CeCe has graced the stage with musical giants, creating unforgettable moments that have enriched her musical journey.
Transformative Encounters:
- Finding Inspiration in Unexpected Places: During a trip to South Africa, CeCe visited Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Witnessing the resilience and hope emanating from such a dark place deeply impacted her, finding its way into her music and fueling her activism for social justice.
- Giving Back through Volunteering: CeCe’s travels often involve giving back to the communities she visits. She has participated in humanitarian missions, volunteered at shelters, and used her platform to raise awareness for various causes, leaving a lasting positive impact wherever she goes.
Future Aspirations and Goals
Continued Musical Impact:
- Furthering Gospel’s Reach: CeCe’s passion for gospel music burns bright. She might aim to further expand its reach, collaborating with artists from different genres and backgrounds to introduce its message to new audiences.
- Elevating Worship Music: Her focus might also shift towards creating even more powerful worship music, songs that resonate deeply with diverse communities and inspire spiritual growth.
- Mentoring Younger Artists: Sharing her knowledge and experience with aspiring gospel singers could be another goal, nurturing the next generation of talent and ensuring the genre’s future.
Expanding Her Influence:
- Interfaith Dialogue: CeCe’s deep faith could lead her to explore interfaith dialogue, promoting understanding and respect between different religious communities.
- Social Justice Advocacy: Her voice carries power, and she might aim to use it even more to advocate for social justice issues close to her heart, such as poverty, inequality, and racial injustice.
- Philanthropic Initiatives: Expanding her existing charitable work or launching new initiatives to empower marginalized communities and uplift those in need could be another focus.
Personal Growth and Fulfillment:
- Spiritual Deepening: As a devout Christian, her journey of faith is ongoing. She might aspire to further deepen her spiritual understanding and share her insights with others.
- Family and Community: Spending quality time with family and strengthening her ties within the community could be important to her, balancing her busy life with personal fulfillment.
- Continued Learning and Exploration: CeCe is a lifelong learner. Exploring new interests, acquiring new skills, and embracing personal growth through different avenues might be part of her future aspirations.
Social Impact: Philanthropic, Charitable and Community Involvement
Philanthropic endeavors:
- Dress for Success: CeCe actively supports Dress for Success, a global organization empowering women to achieve economic independence through professional attire and development programs.
- Habitat for Humanity: She has partnered with Habitat for Humanity, joining forces to build homes for families in need, demonstrating her dedication to providing safe and stable housing.
- World Vision: CeCe collaborates with World Vision, tackling poverty and promoting social justice around the world, focusing on issues like access to education, healthcare, and clean water.
- CeCe Winans Foundation: She established her own foundation to empower youth and families through faith-based programs, offering mentorship, leadership training, and scholarships.
Charitable contributions:
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital: CeCe has lent her voice and support to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, advocating for children battling cancer and other life-threatening diseases.
- Feed the Children: She participates in campaigns and events supporting Feed the Children, an organization dedicated to alleviating hunger and malnutrition across the globe.
- Gospel Gives Back: CeCe is a regular presence at Gospel Gives Back events, uniting artists and fans to raise funds for various charitable causes.
Community involvement:
- Church leadership: CeCe and her husband co-pastor Nashville Life Church, serving their community through spiritual guidance, outreach programs, and social events.
- Motivational speaking: She uses her platform as a role model and motivational speaker, inspiring audiences with her personal story, faith, and resilience.
- Advocacy and activism: CeCe raises her voice on social justice issues, advocating for racial equality, education access, and support for underprivileged communities.
Cece Winans Awards Accomplishments and Achievements
Awards:
- Grammys: CeCe holds the record for the most Grammys awarded to a female gospel artist with a total of 15, including three for Best Gospel Album, three for Best Gospel Performance/Song, and two for Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song.
- Dove Awards: She reigns supreme with 31 Dove Awards, solidifying her status as a gospel legend. These include five Song of the Year awards and countless accolades for her albums and recordings.
- Stellar Awards: With 17 Stellar Awards under her belt, CeCe’s influence within the gospel community is undeniable. She has won recognition for Female Vocalist of the Year, Album of the Year, and numerous other categories.
- Other Accolades: CeCe’s impressive collection extends beyond gospel music. She has received 7 NAACP Image Awards, a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and is an inaugural inductee into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame.
Accomplishments:
- Sales Success: CeCe is the best-selling gospel artist of all time, with album sales exceeding 12 million copies worldwide. Her solo works like “Alone in Love” and “Everlasting Love” were global successes, topping the Billboard Gospel charts.
- Crossover Appeal: With the BeBe & CeCe duo, CeCe reached beyond the gospel audience, achieving mainstream success with the crossover hit “I’ll Take Your Hand” reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100.
- Inspirational Influence: CeCe’s music transcends entertainment, offering powerful messages of faith, hope, and love. Her songs like “How Great Is Our God” and “Goodness of God” have become anthems for millions, uplifting spirits and fostering spiritual connection.
Achievements:
- Genre Pioneer: CeCe has played a crucial role in breaking barriers and expanding the reach of gospel music. Her solo success and collaborations with diverse artists showcase her musical versatility and influence.
- Philanthropic Leadership: CeCe actively uses her platform to support various charitable causes. She is involved in initiatives like Dress For Success, empowering women and promoting economic independence.
- Ministerial Impact: Co-pastoring Nashville Life Church with her husband, CeCe extends her influence beyond music, providing spiritual guidance and leadership to her community.
Legacy
Musical Icon:
- Genre-bending pioneer: With her dynamic voice and soul-stirring lyrics, CeCe defied boundaries, bridging the gap between gospel and mainstream music. Songs like “How Great Is Our God” and “Goodness of God” transcended genres, resonating with listeners from all walks of life.
- Chart-topping success: Boasting 15 Grammy Awards, the most for any female gospel artist, and selling over 12 million albums worldwide, CeCe solidified her place as a top-selling and critically acclaimed gospel artist.
- Inspiring a generation: Her powerful vocals and heartfelt messages have influenced countless gospel singers and musicians, paving the way for a new generation of talent.
Spiritual Leader:
- Faithful role model: CeCe’s unwavering faith is the core of her music and life. Her genuine humility and transparent journey inspire millions to embrace their own faith and seek spiritual growth.
- Church leadership: Co-pastoring Nashville Life Church alongside her husband, she actively guides and uplifts her community, offering spiritual guidance and fostering a welcoming environment for all.
- Global gospel ambassador: CeCe’s music carries a message of hope and love that transcends cultural and religious boundaries, uniting people through shared faith and uplifting messages.
Philanthropist and Activist:
- Giving back: She actively supports and partners with numerous charitable organizations like Dress for Success, Habitat for Humanity, and World Vision, addressing issues like poverty, hunger, and lack of access to education and healthcare.
- Empowering youth: Through her own CeCe Winans Foundation, she provides mentorship, leadership training, and scholarships to empower young people, particularly within underserved communities.
- Voice for justice: CeCe uses her platform to advocate for social justice issues like racial equality, education access, and support for marginalized communities, inspiring positive change through her voice and actions.
Hobbies and Interests
Family First:
- Devoted wife and mother: CeCe cherishes her family life, spending quality time with her husband, Alvin Love, and their children. Whether it’s sharing meals, enjoying outdoor activities, or simply relaxing together, family always comes first for her.
- Grandmotherly love: CeCe embraces her role as a grandmother, showering her grandchildren with love and attention. She finds joy in watching them grow, learn, and explore the world.
Creative Pursuits:
- Passionate writer: CeCe enjoys expressing herself through writing. She has authored a book, “Believe for It,” sharing her personal story, insights on faith, and encouragement for readers.
- Songwriting and composing: Though primarily known for her singing, CeCe also contributes to the creative process behind her music. She co-writes some of her songs, pouring her thoughts and emotions into the lyrics.
Outdoor Activities:
- Nature lover: CeCe finds peace and inspiration in nature. She enjoys spending time outdoors, whether it’s hiking, gardening, or simply soaking up the sunshine.
- Animal advocate: CeCe has a soft spot for animals and cares deeply about their welfare. She supports animal rescue organizations and encourages others to treat animals with compassion.
Philanthropic endeavors:
- Giving back: As mentioned earlier, CeCe is deeply committed to philanthropy and social justice causes. She lends her time and resources to various organizations, supporting initiatives that empower communities and uplift those in need.
Staying Active:
- Yoga and fitness: CeCe prioritizes her physical well-being. She practices yoga and other forms of exercise to stay healthy and energized, ensuring she has the stamina to tackle her busy schedule.
Lifelong Learning:
- Curious and engaged: CeCe is a lifelong learner, always seeking new knowledge and experiences. She reads extensively, attends talks and workshops, and continuously expands her horizons.
Personal Beliefs
Core Values:
- Strong emphasis on love and forgiveness: Her music and public statements consistently emphasize God’s love for all people and the importance of forgiveness, both for oneself and others.
- Commitment to compassion and service: Her faith inspires her to be compassionate and serve others, evident in her extensive philanthropic work and community involvement.
- Importance of prayer and worship: Prayer and worship are central to her spiritual life, providing her with strength, guidance, and a sense of connection to God.
Specific Beliefs:
- Salvation through Jesus Christ: She believes in salvation through Jesus Christ and emphasizes the importance of accepting him as Lord and Savior.
- Power of the Holy Spirit: She actively embraces the Holy Spirit, recognizing its role in guiding and empowering her in all aspects of life.
- Biblical teachings: Her beliefs are firmly grounded in the Bible, which she sees as a source of wisdom, truth, and comfort.
Living her faith:
- Authenticity and transparency: CeCe speaks openly about her faith and struggles, making her a relatable role model for many.
- Faithful living: She strives to live out her faith in everyday life, treating others with kindness, respect, and understanding.
- Sharing her faith: While respecting others’ beliefs, she is often vocal about her Christian faith, hoping to inspire others and share the message of hope and love she has found.
Evolving views:
- Openness to growth: While grounded in core beliefs, CeCe admits to evolving understandings and interpretations of her faith as she learns and experiences life.
- Importance of personal relationship with God: She emphasizes the importance of each individual developing a personal relationship with God, rather than simply adhering to rigid doctrines.
Quotes
Final Thoughts
Musical Icon: Cece Winans’ powerful voice, groundbreaking collaborations, and genre-bending music have secured her place as a gospel legend and trailblazer, inspiring generations of musicians and captivating audiences worldwide.
Cece Winans Contacts
- X (Twitter)
- Youtube
- Tiktok
- Website
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