Gospel Leader Walter Hawkins Dies

Gospel legend Walter Hawkins has died. He was 61.

A songwriter, pastor, and thrilling live performer, Hawkins earned a 1980 Grammy in the Best Gospel Performance, Contemporary or Inspirational field for his hit “The Lord’s Prayer,” while his 1990 album Love Alive III has sold more than one million copies. All together, he has received nine Grammy nominations, while his albums have remained at the top of Billboard gospel charts for months at a time.

Members of the Hawkins Family were honored as genre pioneers during the 2006 BMI Trailblazers of Gospel Luncheon.

The Oakland, California native is survived by his two children, along with numerous grandchildren, nieces, and nephews.