Mandisa: American Idol singer dies aged 47

Tributes are being paid after Grammy-winning American Idol singer Mandisa Lynn Hundley died at the age of 47.

Paula Abdul, who was a judge during her Idol season in 2006, called her a “true beacon of light” in a statement to People.

Another Idol star Danny Gokey wrote on X, formerly Twitter, that he was “devastated”.

Mandisa’s publicist confirmed to BBC News that she was found dead in her home on Thursday.

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

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

The singer, known by the mononym Mandisa, took home the Grammy in the best contemporary Christian music category for her record Overcomer in 2014.

The gospel singer competed in season five of American Idol in 2006, finishing in ninth place.

She went on to have considerable success as she forged a career in Christian music.

Her records including 2011’s What If We Were Real, 2009’s Freedom and 2007’s True Beauty also received Grammy nominations.

Mandisa had spoken candidly about her depression and grief in her memoir in 2022, Out of the Dark: My Journey Through The Shadows To Find God’s Joy.

An Instagram statement on her page said: “Mandisa was a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world.”

News Sources : Capito CMG & BBC.

Gabby Barrett Joins Colton Dixon on New Version of “Build A Boat”

Colton Dixon’s “Build A Boat” has truly found an anchor at radio. No. 1 for 10 weeks, the track was also the longest running No. 1 Mediabase Christian AC song of 2022. On January 27th, a brand-new version of the song, “Build A Boat (feat. Gabby Barrett)” will be available, featuring MULTI-PLATINUM and award-winning Country star Gabby Barrett.

“I respect Colton’s creativity as an artist and was already a big fan of ‘Build A Boat’ before he reached out to collaborate,” shares Barrett. “These lyrics really hit me, and it’s such a blessing to be a part of this new version and to be able to honor our Lord in this way.”

Equally excited to have Barrett join him on what’s become the biggest song of his career, Dixon commented, “I’m so honored to have a fellow American Idol alum, Gabby Barrett, join me in spreading the message of faith and perseverance through my song ‘Build A Boat’- what a great way to kick off the year!”

Dixon will be touring across the U.S. this spring on his “Build A Boat Tour” featuring Jordan St. Cyr and special guests Apollo LTD. Hitting approximately 35 cities, the tour will kick off March 10th in Bedford, NH. Initial tour dates are listed below, with more being added soon. Tickets are now on sale at ColtonDixon.com.

Danny Gokey – All Are Welcome (Live At The Mulehouse)

America watched closely as Danny Gokey battled tragedy and won millions of hearts on his way to the finals of American Idol Season 8. His story was no secret: a onetime truck driver from Milwaukee, he’d married his high school sweetheart Sophia only to lose her, a victim of surgery gone bad, just a month before auditioning for the smash hit talent show. That was enough to transfix viewers week after week. Add to that his singing — expressive, soulful, driven but yet in command of emotions that would have overpowered practically anyone else. The result was a performance that moved audiences to tears and inspired many to face adversity with greater courage. Today Danny Gokey stands at a different place, wiser, stronger. He’s married and has become a father. Once paled by clouds, his world now bathes in a brighter light.

Danny Gokey – New Day (Official Music Video)

Description Danny Gokey has been finding empowerment through music, his faith, and knowing that he’s making an impact on people’s lives. Originally a truck driver from Milwaukee, Danny won American Idol Season 8 while fighting tragedy every step of the day. After deciding to audition with his wife, he lost her to a surgery gone wrong only one month before taking the stage by storm. Today, Danny is married with and a father and is a stronger and wiser. He poured his soul into his album “Rise,” and continues to use his faith, strength and passion to impact others as well as grow in his own life.

“American Idol” finalist EVELYN CORMIER has released her first faith-based single, “In The Garden.”

Cormier, who made her way to the Top 14, was a favourite of the “American Idol” judges during Season 17. Katy Perry said, “Literally one of the most favorite voices I have ever heard in my life,” and Lionel Richie said, “I’m a fan…I love your voice.”

Cormier joined The Rocking Horse Music Club in the U.K. in November 2019 to perform at a tribute event for Anthony Phillips and Mike Rutherford. That night, she sang Ant Phillips’ song, “Something Blue,” which she later recorded for the tribute album. While in England, Cormier also headlined at the award-winning Green Note in London.

Cormier kicked off 2020 by releasing two singles, “Golden Ivy” and “Acoustic Dreaming” across all digital outlets.

Colton Dixon Releases Stunning New Single & Video.

Colton Dixon has unveiled his first new music in nearly three years with “Miracles.”  The hopeful, catchy new track was co-written with Michael Jade and the late busbee, who also wrote Dixon’s first No. 1 single, “You Are.”  The track, his Atlantic Record’s debut, is also accompanied by a stunning music video.

“‘Miracles’ is a song that has meaning and depth, but it just feels fun musically,” Dixon says. “Some things are more than coincidence. I believe there is a God who loves you and looking out for you. I’m pointing out to others that there’s more to life than meets the eye. I believe miracles happen all around us. I’d like to encourage all of us to slow down a bit, so we can see and appreciate the miracles for what they are.”

Colton Dixon quickly became a household name in 2012 when he was voted a fan favorite and made it to the top seven on Season 11 of Fox’s hit show AMERICAN IDOL. His career has been on the fast track ever since, now boasting over 100 million streams across all platforms. Dixon’s 2013 debut, A Messenger, set the record for biggest first-week sales by a new solo Christian act, becoming the No. 1 selling album by a new Christian artist.

E.P & Lyric Video Release from Former American Idol Shae Wilbur

Internationally known recording artist and songwriter, SHAE WILBUR has released her five-song Unmovable EP through her newly formed partnership with Venture3Media.

Shae first shared her talents as a contestant on Season 8 of American Idol. She quickly shot to fame in both the US and UK after her audition aired and made front page news at numerous media outlets. Harking back to that season, Shae invited fellow contestant Danny Gokey to join her on her EP’s first single and title track, “Unmovable.”

Listen and watch the lyric video here: