Mandisa, former ‘American Idol’ contestant and Grammy winner, dies at 47, reports say
Mandisa, Christian recording artist and “American Idol” alum, has died, multiple outlets reported.
The Grammy winner died April 18 at her home in Nashville, Tennessee, WZTV reported. She was 47.
The singer’s team confirmed the news Friday, April 19.
“We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased,” her team said on X, formerly known as Twitter. “At this time we do not know the cause of death or any further details. We ask for your prayers for her family and close knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
Mandisa auditioned for “American Idol” in 2005 and made it to the top 10 before she was eliminated, People reported. She appeared alongside favorites including Katharine McPhee, Chris Daughtry and Elliott Yamin.
In 2014, she won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.
The California native got her start as a member of the Fisk Jubilee Singers while attending Fisk University in Nashville, according to Christian radio network K-LOVE.
She went on to release five albums and a Christmas LP over the course of her career, the station reported. Her biggest hits include “Overcomer,” “Stronger” and “Good Morning.”
“Mandisa loved Jesus, and she used her unusually extensive platform to talk about Him at every turn,” David Pierce, chief media officer at K-LOVE, said in a statement. “Her kindness was epic, her smile electric, her voice massive, but it was no match for the size of her heart.”
News of the singer’s death prompted an outpouring of tributes from fans and fellow artists.
Take a look back at her “Idol” audition:
This story was originally published April 19, 2024 at 9:49 AM with the headline "Mandisa, former ‘American Idol’ contestant and Grammy winner, dies at 47, reports say."