'We lost a hero': Fans pay heartfelt tribute as Grammy award winner and 'American Idol' alum Mandisa dies at 47

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NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE: Grammy Award-winning singer Mandisa has died at the age of 47 on Thursday, April 18.

In a statement issued following her death, a representative for the singer wrote, “We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased," reported People.

How did Mandisa die?

The spokesperson for Mandisa stated that the cause of death or any further details surrounding her death inher home in Nashville remains unknown at the time.

"We ask for your prayers for her family and a close-knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time," read the statement.

Inside Mandisa's music career

Mandisa, who was born and raised in Citrus Heights, California, graduated in music.

In 2005, she auditioned for 'American Idol' and gained national attention in the fifth season of the reality competition show.

Captivating audiences and judges alike, Mandisa made it to the top 10 on the show and has garnered praise for her performances throughout the competition.

Her notable performances included songs like Stevie Wonder's 'Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing' and Chaka Khan's 'I'm Every Woman'.

Mandisa who was eliminated from the show in the top nine forgave judge Simon Cowell who made fun of her weight.

In 2017, she had candidly spoke about her mental health struggles and disclosed that she had contemplated suicide before.

Mandisa's rise as a Christian recording artist

Following Mandisa's elimination from 'American Idol', the singer released her debut album 'True Beauty' in 2007.

The album soared to No 1 on the Top Christian Albums charts, making her the first new female artist ever to debut atop the chart in its 27-year history.

With a string of successful albums, including the acclaimed holiday record, 'It's Christmas' in 2008 and 'Out of the Dark' in 2007, she continued to shine in the music industry.

She earned Grammy nominations for four of her six albums which included True Beauty, Freedom (2009), What If We Were Real (2011), and Overcomer (2013).

In 2014, she won the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for 'Overcomer'.

Michael W Smith, Jon Reddick, TobyMac, Jordan Feliz, Matthew West, and Kirk Franklin were among her notable collaborators over the years.

Internet sends prayers as beloved singer Mandisa dies at 47

After the news of Mandisa's death at 47 broke out, netizens paid tribute to the singer who rose to fame on 'American Idol' and later became a Grammy-winning singer.

"Growing up, your music carried me. RIP Mandisa," a user wrote on X (formerly Twitter) while another user wrote, "The passing of Grammy winning singer Mandisa at 47 is a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the loss of talent in the music industry."

"So sad, we lost a hero and it's painful. Rest in peace," a fan commented and a netizen tweeted, "What a person and what a voice."

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