The line between private and business is usually blurred in Mahalia's contacts. Private friends and family members gave her advice on all sorts of matters, partly because Mahalia asked them to. On the other hand, business contacts, for example with producers, became very close after a while, so that Mahalia also confided in them about private matters in order to hear their opinion.
One of the first was Bob Miller.
He was a funeral director who supported Mahalia in her early days in Chicago. He used his hearse to drive her to performances and negotiated her fees. Mahalia trusted Miller and appreciated his loyalty.
Also worth mentioning from the early days is Dr. Clayton F. Hawkins.
He was an influential pastor in Chicago who recognized Mahalia's talent and encouraged her to pursue her career. Hawkins acted as her mentor and advisor.
Her husbands Isaac Hockenhull and Sigmond Galloway also tried to influence Mahalia's decisions and music, but they were unsuccessful. This fact was a significant reason for their separation.
Mahalia's control over her career
Mahalia always wanted to remain in control of her career and was reluctant to let others interfere in her decisions. She trusted her own judgment and kept a tight rein on her finances, often to the chagrin of her managers.
Mahalia insisted on certain conditions in her contracts and rejected offers that did not align with her values and musical vision. She was willing to accept financial losses in order to maintain her artistic integrity.