GRAMMY®-winning Christian music artist Mandisa, 47, passed away at her home in Nashville, Tennessee, on Thursday, Apr. 18, 2024. The cause of death is not yet known.
Born and raised in California, Mandisa first came to national attention when she stood her ground with kindness when critiqued by “American Idol” judge Simon Cowell on Season 5 of the popular TV vocal competition. After finishing in the Top 10 on “Idol,” Mandisa released her debut album, “True Beauty,” in 2007.
The celebrated vocalist began her career as a member of the revered Fisk Jubilee Singers while in college at Nashville’s Fisk University. After “Idol” introduced her to the masses, her charismatic personality and show-stopping voice quickly captured the hearts of listeners and her fellow artists, many of whom she collaborated with through the years. Among her most notable collaborations were songs with TobyMac, Matthew West, Michael W. Smith, Kirk Franklin, Jordan Feliz and Jon Reddick.
The two-time K-LOVE Fan Award winner released five full-length projects and one Christmas LP over the course of her nearly two-decade tenure. 2013’s career-defining album, “Overcomer,” earned the powerhouse vocalist numerous accolades, as well as an array of critical praise and high-profile media coverage, including multiple appearances on “Good Morning America.” In addition to songs of resilience like “Overcomer,” Mandisa became a staple at Christian radio with energetic, faith-affirming singles like “Stronger,” “Good Morning (feat. TobyMac)” and “My Deliverer.”
Even more than her music, the Platinum-selling singer will forever be known for her huge heart and sincerity. Her longtime friend, frequent collaborator and former tourmate TobyMac described her best when he penned an endorsement for her last book. “Since the first day I met Mandisa, she has been nothing but original and courageous,” Toby shared. “My touring family is better when she is out with us. She genuinely supports each artist that takes the stage, as well as every crew member behind the stage. In a single word, I would say without hesitation that she is one of the most authentic people I have ever met. Her heart is to help others.”
Mandisa’s final collection of all-new musical material, "Out of the Dark," bowed in 2017. She’s since released a “greatest hits” compilation, a remix EP and a string of one-off worship singles. Mandisa revealed her battle with depression in her intimate memoir, “Out of the Dark: My Journey Through the Shadows to Find God’s Joy.” She further discussed her struggles on her “Out of the Dark” podcast with co-host Laura Williams on AccessMore. Even from her earliest days on “Idol,” Mandisa was respected for her transparency both on and off the stage.
“Mandisa loved Jesus, and she used her unusually wide platform to talk about Him at every turn. Her kindness was epic, her smile electric, her voice massive, but it was no match for the size of her heart,” says David Pierce, K-LOVE Chief Media Officer. “Mandisa struggled, and she was vulnerable enough to share that with us, which helped us talk about our own struggles. Mandisa’s struggles are over. She is with the God she sang about now. While we are saddened, Mandisa is home. We’re praying for Mandisa’s family and friends and ask you to join us.”
