Mandisa, a Grammy-winning Christian singer who started her career on “American Idol,” was discovered dead in her Nashville home on Thursday. She was 47.
“We can confirm that Mandisa was found deceased in her home yesterday,” her representative told local media The Tennessean. “At this time, we do not know the cause of death or any other information. We ask for your prayers for her family and close circle of friends at this extremely difficult time.”
K-Love, a Christian radio network, also acknowledged gospel and contemporary Christian vocalists.
“Mandisa loved Jesus, and she used her unusually extensive platform to talk about Him at every turn,” writes David Pierce, K-Love’s chief media officer.
“Her kindness was epic, her smile electric, and her voice massive, but it was nothing compared to the size of her heart.” Mandisa battled, and she was brave enough to share it with us, allowing us to talk about our own issues. Mandisa’s difficulties are over, and she is now with the God she sang about. While we are heartbroken, Mandisa has returned home. We are praying for Mandisa’s family and friends, and we want you to join us.
Born Mandisa Lynn Hundley, the singer auditioned for Season 5 of “American Idol” in 2005 and became a fan favorite when the program premiered a year later. She made it to the final nine contenders before being eliminated.
Throughout her career, she sang songs including “I’m Every Woman,” “I Don’t Hurt Anymore,” “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout a Thing,” “Any Man of Mine,” “Shackles (Praise You),” and others.
Following her “American Idol” victory, Mandisa released her debut album, “True Beauty,” in 2007. It debuted at the top of Billboard’s Christian album chart, a first for a female artist, and peaked at number 43 on the Billboard 200. Her first single from the album, “Only the World,” debuted at No. 2 on the Hot Singles Chart before rising to No. 1 in the second week.
Her other albums include “It’s Christmas” (2008), “Freedom” (2009), “What if We Were Real” (2011), “Overcomer” (2013), “Out of the Dark” (2017), and a best-hits collection in 2020.
She was nominated for best pop/contemporary gospel album for “True Beauty” and “Freedom,” as well as contemporary Christian music album for “What If We Were Real.” Her triumph ultimately came when “Overcomer” received a trophy for contemporary Christian album as well as an extra nomination for gospel/contemporary Christian performance for the title tune.
Mandisa is one of just five “American Idol” alumni to win a Grammy, alongside Kelly Clarkson, Carrie Underwood, Jennifer Hudson, and Tori Kelly.
