Renowned contemporary Christian singer Mandisa, known for her appearance on 'American Idol' and her Grammy-winning album 'Overcomer' in 2013, has passed away at the age of 47. The singer was found deceased in her Nashville, Tennessee home on Thursday, with the cause of death yet to be determined.
Born Mandisa Lynn Hundley near Sacramento, California, the talented artist began her musical journey singing in church. Her big break came in 2006 when she finished ninth on 'American Idol', earning praise from host Ryan Seacrest for her vibrant spirit on the show.
Following her 'American Idol' stint, Mandisa released her debut album 'True Beauty' in 2007, which garnered a Grammy nomination for best pop and contemporary gospel album. She went on to release a total of six albums, including a Christmas album.
In 2014, Mandisa clinched a Grammy award for best contemporary Christian music album for 'Overcomer', a testament to her musical prowess and impact in the industry.
Aside from her musical achievements, Mandisa was also known for her candidness about her personal struggles, particularly with depression. In 2022, she published a memoir titled 'Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows to Find God’s Joy', where she shared her battles with severe depression, weight-related challenges, the impact of the coronavirus pandemic, and how her faith guided her through these hardships.
Her willingness to openly discuss her struggles resonated with many, as evidenced by the outpouring of tributes and condolences from fans and the Christian music community. Christian radio network K-Love paid homage to Mandisa on social media, acknowledging her vulnerability and how it encouraged others to address their own challenges.
