Nashville music community remembers gospel music singer Mandisa
The Grammy-award winning singer was found dead Thursday at her home near Nashville.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WSMV) - From her time with the famed Fisk Jubilee Singers to her music career beyond American Idol, it’s clear that gospel singer, Mandisa, 47, had a huge impact on Nashville’s music community.
The Grammy-award-winning singer was found dead Thursday at her home near Nashville. The Franklin Police Department says it doesn’t believe her death was the result of suspicious or criminal activity.
“We know that she had a place in heaven that was prepared for her. I think because of her strong faith, we as a community are going to have to pull on that to help us get through this loss,” said Dr. Preston Wilson, Director of Fisk Jubilee Signers.
Mandisa rose to fame after placing ninth on Season Five of American Idol. Before that, she continued her vocal performance studies at Fisk University, graduating in 2000.
“Fisk has a history of producing some pretty amazing individuals that do amazing things. Mandisa was no different. She brought a positive light to Fisk and really demonstrated that Fisk does cultivate some of the greatest people,” Dr. Wilson said.
In 2014, Mandisa won a Grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album for her album, “Overcomer.” As she became one of the most recognizable voices in the Christian music industry.
Nashville singer, Danny Gokey reflected on his time with Mandisa via Instagram. He says he connected with Mandisa over American Idol and the two did several tours together. Gokey’s post went on to say that when he made his debut in Christian music, Mandisa was his greatest supporter.
The Fisk Jubilee Singers are planning to dedicate a song to Mandisa during their annual commencement ceremony, set for May 5.
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