From entertainment tycoons to other celebrities, different people remembered the life and works of musician Andrae Crouch, known worldwide as "the father of modern gospel music", who passed away last Thursday.
"To say the legendary Andrae Crouch was an influence on my life would be a vast understatement. One of the highlights of my career was to perform his classic song, 'The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power,' as he played the piano during a Bill Gaither video taping. I'll never forget it. We've lost a true pioneer and he will be missed, " said Jason Crabb, Grammy winner of the Best Southern/Country/Bluegrass Gospel Album of 2010.
Tyler Perry, named by Forbes as the highest paid man in entertainment, expressed his sentiments about the legend on Twitter.
"God has spoken, let the church say amen,'" Perry posted. "May your soul rest in peace Andrae Crouch."
Another Grammy winner, singer and pianist Rev. W.R. "Smokie" Norful, Jr. also got on Twitter and posted his sentiments about the passing away of Crouch. Norful tweeted:
"LEGEND. One of the greatest songwriters of our time. He will never be forgotten. R.I.P Andrae Crouch."
The singer, whose tremendous success in the music world included both Christian and secular genres, passed away at 72 after suffering a heart attack. Crouch's work was featured in acclaimed films such as The Color Purple and Disney's The Lion King.
His sister released a statement expressing her close-knit relationship with her brother.
"Today my twin brother, womb-mate and best friend went home to be with the Lord," Pastor Sandra Crouch said in an official statement. "Please keep me, my family and our church family in your prayers. I tried to keep him here but God loved him best. Details of Andraé's celebration service and tribute will be forthcoming."