Gospel singer, Bishop Rance Allen, dead at 71

Gospel music legend Bishop Rance Allen is dead at 71, the Church of God in Christ (COGIC) announced in a statement 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,” the Pentecostal–Holiness Christian denomination organization said.

“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 musical genre as he remained a sought after personality called to perform on global venues.”

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Allen was the lead vocalist of the Detroit, Michigan gospel group with his namesake, The Rance Allen Group, which was formed along with his brothers Tom, Steve and Esau in 1970. The group was known for its signature blend of gospel, rock and soul music.

As a vocalist, Allen was known for his massive vocal range. He and his group performed alongside other gospel greats like Andraé Crouch, Marvin Winans, Bebe and Cece Winans, the Clark Sisters, Kirk Franklin, Marvin Sapp, Shirley Caesar and Donnie McClurkin.

The group also won two Stellar Awards in 2012 for Quartet of the Year and Traditional Group/Duo of the Year.

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In their statement announcing his passing, COGIC said 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 request the continued prayers as well acts of emotional and spiritual support for the family,” the church body said.

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