Gospel Music Icon Rodena Preston Passes

GOSPELflava joins others across the world mourning the passing of Dr. Rodena Preston.  A musician, choir director, workshop clinician and recording artist, Preston is most known for her work with her choir, the Voices of Deliverance and her work with Rev. James Cleveland in the organization of the Gospel Music Workshop of America.  Preston served as chapter representative for the Los Angeles Chapter of GMWA in addition to serving as coordinator for the GMWA Mass Choir.

Born in Houston Texas, Preston was the oldest of 4 children.  Preston followed in the footsteps of her mother, noted pianist Robbie Preston Williams and began playing piano at the age of three.  The family relocated to Los Angeles when Rodena was 9, and she started playing for church choirs at the age of 11.  Preston would serve as an inspiration to her younger brother, Billy Preston who went on to great fame as a organist, singer and songwriter.

Preston was appointed chapter rep for the LA Chapter by Reverend Cleveland in 1972. She served as a pianist for Southern California Community Choir before founding the Voices of Deliverance, recording 4 albums,  The Old Rugged Cross, Peaceful Waters, There’s Been A Change, Holding On and Deliverance.