“American Idol” is paying tribute to singer and former contestant Mandisa, who passed away on April 18 at the age of 47.
On Monday’s episode of the singing competition, former contestants Colton Dixon (Season 11), Danny Gokey (Season 8), and Melinda Doolittle (Season 6) came together to sing Mary Mary’s “Mary Mary,” which Mandisa performed on her season. Shackles (Praise You)”. “Idol” 5.
The trio wore all-white outfits as they performed the gospel song, and a collage of photos of the late singer was unveiled at the end of the show.
“I’ve known her for over 20 years,” Dolittle said after the performance. “We started singing background and sessions together, and then she appeared on ‘Idol’ and I cheered her on. Then I came on the next season and she cheered me on.” I mean, that’s my girlfriend.”
Gorky recalled that Mandisa was always “a cheerleader for others,” including himself, when they were going through difficult times.
When “Idol” host Ryan Seacrest asked the group to elaborate on Mandisa’s relationship with “Shackles,” Dixon responded, “This song sums up her life. I think she started admiring it and… I think we continued to admire him. We’re going to miss him.” She is, but our loss is God’s gain. ”
A rep for “American Idol” previously released a statement to USA TODAY regarding Mandisa’s death on April 19.
“Mandisa was a beloved icon on American Idol and in the music industry. She became a platinum-selling artist and won several Grammy Awards for her music. With her death, the show Everyone on the show is saddened and our deepest sympathies go out to her family,” the statement read.
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John Hundley speaks out about daughter Mandisa’s death
Friends and family remembered Mandisa at a memorial service Saturday at Brentwood Baptist Church in Tennessee. Her father, John Hundley, was one of the speakers at the event.
He spoke to Fox News on Tuesday, about two weeks after his daughter’s death.
“I strongly believe that the detective believes and knows that he did not harm him,” Hundley said. He went on to claim that “there was no indication that she had done anything to harm herself.”
Franklin Police Department Spokesman Max Winitz confirmed to USA TODAY on Tuesday that the investigation into Mandisa’s death is still ongoing pending results from the medical examiner’s office.
Hundley added: “Some people criticize what I’m saying. They say I should be more sad. So am I. The first few nights, I’ll tell you, were tough. I couldn’t sleep. …I believe she did,” he added. I’m happy and I’m trying to be as happy as she is. ”
Police do not suspect foul play in Mandisa’s death
The singer was found dead in her home on April 18, a representative for Mandisa previously confirmed to USA TODAY.
“The cause of death and further details are unknown at this time. Please keep her family and close friends in your prayers during this incredibly difficult time,” her team said in an email.
On April 22, Franklin Police Department officials told The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network, that foul play was not suspected in Mandisa’s death. However, the probable cause of death has not been disclosed.
“At this time, there is no indication that the death was the result of suspicious or criminal activity,” Max Winitz said. “The Franklin Police Department extends its condolences to (Mandisa’s) family, friends, and fans.”
On the same day, police shared the following information: ×post He said the investigation into her death “continues.”
The California-born star first rose to fame on season 5 of “Idol,” where she broke into the top 10.
Police do not suspect foul play‘American Idol’ alumnus and singer Mandisa dies
She then released her debut album “True Beauty” and became one of the most famous singers in the Christian music industry. The five-time Grammy nominee won her award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for her 2013 album “Overcomer,” which featured her popular title song.
“Mandisa was a voice of encouragement and truth to people around the world facing life’s challenges. She wrote this song for a dear friend who passed away in 2017. Her own words It says it best: “I’m home, you’re home now.” Jesus is holding me now, and I have to stop, and I’m alone. Not,” a statement posted to her official Facebook account on Friday read.
Contributed by Jay Stahl and KiMi Robinson, USA TODAY
