WASHINGTON (WUSA9) -- A legendary gospel performer, songwriter and choir director whose work appeared in songs by Michael Jackson and Madonna has died.
Andrae Crouch died Thursday at a hospital in Los Angeles days after he suffered a heart attack, according to a publicist. He was 72 years old.
He wrote dozens of songs for more than 50 years, including gospel songs "The Blood Will Never Lose Its Power" and "Soon and Very Soon," which was sung at a public memorial for Jackson.
He helped pioneer the "Jesus Music" movement in the late 1960s and 1970s that launched the spread of contemporary Christian music.
Crouch also influenced pop music: Elvis Presley and Paul Simon performed Crouch's songs, he helped arrange the Jackson song "Man in the Mirror and he directed the choir on Madonna's "Like A Prayer."
He also had an impact in film. His arrangement for the film "The Color Purple" earned an Oscar nomination, and his music was featured in the movie "The Lion King."
Contributing: The Associated Press
