47-year-old American idol singer Mandisa passes away

American Idol vocalist Mandisa Lynn Hundley, who won a Grammy, has away at the age of 47. Tributes are being given.

Her “true beacon of light” status was praised by Paula Abdul, a judge from her 2006 Idol season, in a statement to People.

Danny Gokey, another famous Idol contestant, expressed his devastation on X, the former Twitter platform.

The PA news agency was informed by Mandisa’s representative that she was discovered deceased in her residence on Thursday.

“At this time, we do not know the cause of death or any further details,” they said.

“We ask for your prayers for her family and close-knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time.”

The singer, also known by her stage name Mandisa, won a Grammy in 2014 for her album Overcomer, which was nominated for Best Contemporary Christian Music.

In 2006, the Christian singer participated in American Idol’s fifth season, placing ninth overall.

She continued to enjoy great success as she developed a Christian music career.

Her albums, Freedom (2009), True Beauty (2007), and What If We Were Real (2011), were all nominated for Grammy Awards.

In her biography, Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows To Find God’s Joy, published in 2022, Mandisa has been open about her experiences with depression and sorrow.

“Mandisa was a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all over the world,” said an Instagram message posted on her page.