The gospel music community is mourning the loss of beloved singer, songwriter, and pastor Norman Hutchins, who passed away unexpectedly this morning at the age of 62. A pioneering voice whose music became a cornerstone of the Black church experience, Hutchins’ impact reverberated well beyond the pulpit and into the hearts of gospel lovers across the nation.

Born September 27, 1962 in Delaware, Hutchins’ ministry began early—preaching his first sermon at the age of 8 and becoming licensed at 12. His spiritual calling, combined with his musical gifts, would go on to shape a decades-long career that touched millions.

A Grammy, Dove, and Stellar Award-nominated artist, Hutchins began recording professionally in 1992, but it was in 1999 with the release of Battlefield on JDI Records that he found national acclaim. The album remained on Billboard’s gospel charts for 88 weeks. He followed that success with a string of Top 10 releases, including Nobody But You (2002) and Where I Long to Be (2023), a deeply personal project chronicling his recovery from blindness.

Among his most iconic works are God’s Got a Blessing (With My Name on It) and Emmanuel, the latter of which became a holiday classic and cemented Hutchins as a choir music maestro. “He had a gift for creating simple, powerful music that became a hallmark of the Black church experience,” said James Roberson, president and CEO of JDI Records, who released four of Hutchins’ albums.

“Norman’s music has truly become a staple,” Roberson continued. “Even though he’s no longer with us, those songs will continue to carry his legacy forward.”

Before launching a national career, Hutchins spent years shaping the Los Angeles gospel scene, first gaining notice as a guest artist on Saints in Praise from West Angeles Church of God in Christ. Later, he would serve as music minister at the church before moving back east to Delaware, where he co-founded Frontline Ministries with his wife, Karen.

A respected pastor and theologian, Hutchins held a master’s degree in Biblical Counseling and a Doctorate in Church Administration. He was also a living testimony of faith and resilience, having survived kidney failure brought on by diabetes—a struggle made public when his wife became his kidney donor.

Kenneth Wells, pastor and gospel industry insider, remembered Hutchins as a “lovable giant” in gospel music.

“I always called him the hit man,” Wells said. “He just kept putting out hit after hit. His artistry was incredible, but more than that, he was a great guy—always supporting others, always showing up.”

Wells said he had spoken to Hutchins earlier this week. “He told me, ‘I go because I want people to know I support them.’ That was Norman. He was at everybody’s concerts. He gave back in ways people never saw.”

Details surrounding his passing are still emerging. Hutchins, who had battled diabetes for years, was found unresponsive this morning. At the time of this writing, an official cause of death has not been released.

He is survived by his wife, Karen Hutchins, and his children. He leaves behind not only a catalog of timeless music but a legacy of ministry, mentorship, and unwavering devotion.

In the words of one of his most beloved songs, “God’s got a blessing with your name on it”—and Norman Hutchins surely claimed his.