Mandisa, winner of a Grammy and former "American Idol" contestant, died at age 47

Grammy Award-winning singer Mandisa, who rose to fame as a contestant on the fifth season of American Idol, passed away on Thursday, April 18, at the age of 47.

“We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased. At this time we do not know the cause of death or any further details,” the post reads. “We ask for your prayers for her family and close knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time. Mandisa was a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world.”

Hailing from Citrus Heights, California, Mandisa pursued her passion for music in college before auditioning for Idol in 2005.

Renowned for her soulful vocals and captivating charisma, she garnered widespread recognition during the show's fifth season (aired in 2006), reaching the top 10 alongside notable figures like Katharine McPhee, Kellie Pickler, Chris Daughtry, Paris Bennett, Elliott Yamin, and eventual winner Taylor Hicks.

Following her stint on American Idol, Mandisa launched her debut album, “True Beauty,” in 2007, which debuted at the summit of Billboard’s Top Christian Albums chart, marking the beginning of her Grammy-nominated career.

Subsequently, she released five more albums: “It’s Christmas” (2008), “Freedom” (2009), “What If We Were Real” (2011), “Overcomer” (2013), and “Out of the Dark” (2017).

Her album “Overcomer” clinched the Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album in 2014.

Throughout her journey, Mandisa collaborated with notable artists such as TobyMac, Michael W. Smith, Jordan Feliz, Jon Reddick, Kirk Franklin, and Matthew West, who commended her talent and philanthropic spirit, both onstage and off.