CeCe Winans is a legendary gospel singer born October 8, 1964. With 18 Grammy Awards and $10 million net worth, she’s the most awarded female gospel artist.
- Quick Facts About CeCe Winans
- Early Life and Musical Family
- The BeBe & CeCe Winans Era
- Solo Career Breakthrough
- Crossover Success and Mainstream Recognition
- Recent Success and Grammy Triumphs
- Marriage and Family Life
- Pastoral Ministry and Community Impact
- Awards and Industry Recognition
- Net Worth and Financial Success
- Final Thoughts
- Frequently Asked Questions
CeCe Winans stands as the most decorated female gospel artist in history. Born Priscilla Marie Winans on October 8, 1964, in Detroit, Michigan, she has redefined gospel music for over four decades. Her powerful voice, unwavering faith, and crossover appeal have earned her 18 Grammy Awards, making her a true legend in contemporary Christian music.
At 61 years old in 2026, CeCe continues to inspire millions worldwide through her ministry and music. From her early days performing with brother BeBe Winans to her groundbreaking solo career, she has sold over 19 million albums. Her journey from a shy Detroit girl to a gospel powerhouse is nothing short of remarkable.
Quick Facts About CeCe Winans
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Priscilla Marie Winans Love |
| Date of Birth | October 8, 1964 |
| Age | 61 years (as of 2026) |
| Birthplace | Detroit, Michigan, USA |
| Profession | Gospel Singer, Pastor, Author |
| Net Worth | $10 million (approx.) |
| Spouse | Alvin Love II (m. 1984) |
| Children | Alvin Love III, Ashley Rose |
| Grammy Awards | 18 |
| Famous For | Best-Selling Female Gospel Artist |
Early Life and Musical Family
CeCe Winans was born into the legendary Winans family, a gospel music dynasty. She is the eighth of ten children born to Delores and David Winans. Her parents were deeply rooted in the Church of God in Christ and dedicated their lives to faith and music.
Growing up in Detroit, gospel music filled the Winans household daily. Her father worked as a barber and taxi driver while her mother was employed at Metropolitan Hospital. Despite financial challenges, the family’s love for God and music never wavered.
CeCe’s paternal grandmother played a pivotal role in her spiritual development. Nicknamed “CeCe” by this beloved grandmother, young Priscilla formed a deep bond with her. Her grandmother’s advice echoed throughout her life: “God’s got His hands on you, CeCe. Just keep your hands in His hands, and you’ll be all right.”
At age eight, CeCe sang her first solo at church, performing “Fill My Cup” for the congregation. Though naturally shy, she discovered confidence through worship. Her siblings were also musically gifted, creating an environment where harmony and praise were constants.
The BeBe & CeCe Winans Era
In 1981, at seventeen, CeCe moved to Charlotte, North Carolina, to sing on The PTL Club, a Christian television program hosted by Jim and Tammy Faye Bakker. Initially part of the larger Winans family ensemble, she and her older brother BeBe soon became a duo.
Their chemistry was undeniable when they performed “Up Where We Belong” with Christian lyrics. Audiences responded enthusiastically, and the duo was born. In 1984, they released their debut album, “Lord Lift Us Up,” on PTL Records.
Husband" loading="lazy" width="180" height="120">BeBe & CeCe Winans achieved unprecedented crossover success. They released nine gold and platinum albums, blending gospel with contemporary R&B elements. Their sound appealed to both traditional gospel audiences and mainstream listeners.
Their album “Different Lifestyles” made history as the first gospel album by a duo to sell over one million copies. Only Aretha Franklin’s “Amazing Grace” had achieved similar success before them. Hit singles like “Lost Without You,” “Addictive Love,” and “I’ll Take You There” topped both gospel and R&B charts.
The duo received multiple Grammy Awards, Dove Awards, and Stellar Awards. They proved that gospel music could achieve commercial success without compromising its spiritual message. Their influence opened doors for future gospel artists seeking mainstream recognition.
Solo Career Breakthrough
In 1995, CeCe launched her solo career with “Alone in His Presence.” The album became a watershed moment in gospel music history. It was only the third gospel album to sell over one million copies, earning platinum certification.
“Alone in His Presence” won CeCe her first solo Grammy Award and two Dove Awards, including Female Vocalist of the Year. The album’s success established her as a formidable artist independent of her brother’s collaboration.
Her 1998 release, “Everlasting Love,” achieved gold certification and featured her highest-charting solo singles. “Well Alright” and “Slippin'” became radio favorites. Notably, R&B legend Lauryn Hill wrote and produced “On That Day” for the album.
That same year, CeCe released “His Gift,” a Christmas album showcasing her versatility. In 1999, she founded her own record label, PureSprings Gospel, demonstrating business acumen alongside artistic talent.
Her first album on the new label was “Alabaster Box” (1999), with production by gospel musician Fred Hammond. The album featured guest appearances by vocal group Take 6 and showcased CeCe’s creative control over her music.
Crossover Success and Mainstream Recognition
CeCe’s collaboration with Whitney Houston on “Count on Me” brought her mainstream visibility. The song, featured on the “Waiting to Exhale” soundtrack in 1996, was certified gold. It reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 4 on the Adult Contemporary chart.
This crossover moment introduced CeCe to audiences who might never have discovered gospel music otherwise. Her friendship with Whitney Houston was deep and enduring. CeCe later became godmother to Whitney’s daughter, Bobbi Kristina Brown.
When Whitney Houston passed away in 2012, CeCe performed “Don’t Cry for Me” and “Jesus Loves Me” at her funeral. The emotional tribute highlighted their profound bond and CeCe’s role as a spiritual anchor in Whitney’s life.
Throughout the 2000s, CeCe continued releasing successful albums. “Purified” (2005) featured production by her nephew Mario Winans. Her son Alvin III co-wrote several tracks, while her sisters Angie and Debbie performed on the album.
“Thy Kingdom Come” (2008) featured the single “Waging War.” In 2009, she reunited with BeBe for “Still,” released by Malaco Records. The album included collaborations with brother Marvin Winans and gospel duo Mary Mary.
Recent Success and Grammy Triumphs
CeCe’s 2017 album “Let Them Fall in Love” won two Grammy Awards for Best Gospel Performance/Song and Best Gospel Album. This success proved her enduring relevance in contemporary gospel music.
In 2021, she released “Believe for It,” her first live worship album. The project won three Grammy Awards in April 2022, including Best Gospel Album. Songs like “Goodness of God” became modern worship anthems.
Her 2024 live album “More Than This” debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Top Gospel Albums and Top Christian Albums charts. The single “That’s My King” topped the Hot Gospel Songs chart and became the No. 1 Gospel Streaming Song.
At the 67th Grammy Awards in 2025, “More Than This” won Best Gospel Album. The song “That’s My King” earned Best Contemporary Christian Music Performance/Song. These victories added to her already impressive Grammy collection.
In 2026, CeCe won her 18th Grammy Award for Best Gospel Performance/Song for “Come Jesus Come,” featuring gospel legend Shirley Caesar. This latest win solidified her position as the most awarded female gospel artist ever.
Marriage and Family Life
CeCe met Alvin Love II in 1982 when she was just seventeen. Her late brother Ronald Winans, Alvin’s friend from church, introduced them at a Detroit bowling alley. Though she found him attractive, CeCe’s focus remained on music.
Several months later, Alvin visited CeCe in North Carolina, and their connection deepened. His humor and easy-going nature won her over. On June 23, 1984, they married. Alvin was sixteen years her senior, a mature presence in her young life.
Despite industry concerns about marrying so young, their union has thrived for over 40 years. They welcomed son Alvin Love III in 1985 and daughter Ashley Rose in 1987. CeCe balanced her demanding career with dedicated motherhood.
The couple homeschooled their children while touring, ensuring family remained central. When travel became too difficult due to the children’s activities, they established a home base. Alvin initially managed CeCe’s career but later stepped back so business wouldn’t dominate their relationship.
In 2024, the couple celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary with a special photoshoot. CeCe wore a white gown resembling her wedding dress, while Alvin donned a sharp tuxedo. Their love story embodies commitment grounded in faith.
Today, CeCe is a grandmother to four grandchildren. She frequently expresses that watching her children and grandchildren walk in faith brings her greatest joy. Family remains her top priority despite her illustrious career.
Pastoral Ministry and Community Impact
Since 2012, CeCe has co-pastored Nashville Life Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, with husband Alvin. This ministry allows her to serve people beyond music. She considers her pastoral role a natural extension of her calling.
CeCe founded the nonprofit organization Sharing the Vision, designed to meet local community needs and support other charitable organizations. She is also a World Vision artist, connecting sponsors with needy children globally.
As a spokesperson for Project Teen Save, a teen suicide prevention initiative, she uses her platform for mental health awareness. Her ministry extends beyond church walls, touching lives through various humanitarian efforts.
She has written four books sharing her faith journey. “On A Positive Note” (2000), “Throne Room: Ushered Into the Presence of God” (2004), “Always Sisters: Becoming the Princess You Were Created to Be” (2007), and “Believe For It: Passing on Faith to the Next Generation” (2024) offer spiritual guidance.
Awards and Industry Recognition
CeCe Winans has received 18 Grammy Awards, the most for any female gospel singer. She has also earned 36 GMA Dove Awards, 28 Stellar Awards, 7 NAACP Image Awards, and 6 Billboard Music Awards.
She has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6126 Hollywood Boulevard and on the Music City Walk of Fame in Nashville. In 2022, she was inducted into the Black Music & Entertainment Walk of Fame alongside brother BeBe.
With 19 million RIAA-certified record sales, she is one of the best-selling gospel artists of all time. Her influence transcends sales figures, however. She has inspired countless artists and shaped contemporary gospel music’s direction.
Net Worth and Financial Success
As of 2026, CeCe Winans’s estimated net worth is $10 million. Her wealth comes from album sales, streaming royalties, concert tours, and book publishing. Decades of consistent success have provided financial stability.
Her live performances and worship tours generate significant revenue. Gospel fans worldwide pay to experience her powerful ministry in person. Her PureSprings Gospel label provides additional income streams.
Smart financial management and faith-based decisions have characterized her approach to wealth. She has invested in real estate and maintained a comfortable lifestyle in Brentwood, Tennessee, while supporting charitable causes.
Final Thoughts
CeCe Winans’s legacy extends far beyond awards and sales figures. She has demonstrated that gospel music can achieve commercial success while maintaining spiritual integrity. Her crossover appeal introduced millions to Christian music.
At 61, she shows no signs of slowing down. Her recent Grammy wins and chart-topping albums prove her continued relevance. She has successfully bridged generational gaps, appealing to both traditional gospel audiences and younger worship music fans.
Her 40-year marriage to Alvin Love II serves as a testament to commitment and faith. In an industry where relationships often crumble, they have built a lasting partnership. Their co-pastoring ministry allows them to serve together.
CeCe’s influence on gospel music cannot be overstated. She paved the way for female artists, proving they could achieve unprecedented success. Her voice has been a source of comfort, inspiration, and worship for millions worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How old is CeCe Winans?
CeCe Winans is 61 years old as of 2026. She was born on October 8, 1964, in Detroit, Michigan. She has been active in gospel music for over 40 years and continues to perform and release new music.
Q2: How many Grammy Awards has CeCe Winans won?
CeCe Winans has won 18 Grammy Awards, the most for any female gospel singer in history. Her most recent Grammy came in 2026 for “Come Jesus Come” featuring Shirley Caesar. She has also won numerous Dove, Stellar, and NAACP Image Awards.
Q3: Is CeCe Winans married?
Yes, CeCe Winans has been married to Alvin Love II since June 23, 1984. They celebrated their 40th wedding anniversary in 2024. Together they have two children, Alvin Love III and Ashley Rose, and four grandchildren.
Q4: What is CeCe Winans’s net worth?
CeCe Winans’s estimated net worth is approximately $10 million as of 2026. Her wealth comes from her successful music career, including album sales, streaming, live performances, book publishing, and her record label PureSprings Gospel.
Q5: What are CeCe Winans’s most popular songs?
Her most popular songs include “Goodness of God,” “That’s My King,” “Believe for It,” “Count on Me” (with Whitney Houston), “Alabaster Box,” “Pray,” and “Well Alright.” These songs have topped gospel and contemporary Christian music charts.
Q6: Does CeCe Winans still perform?
Yes, CeCe Winans continues to perform actively in 2026. She recently toured promoting her “More Than This” album and has appeared on television shows like The Kelly Clarkson Show, The Jennifer Hudson Show, and American Idol.
Q7: What church does CeCe Winans pastor?
CeCe Winans co-pastors Nashville Life Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, alongside her husband Alvin Love II. They have served in this role since 2012, combining their music ministry with pastoral duties and community outreach.
