‘American Idol’ Coach Debra Byrd Dies at 72, Jennifer Hudson and Clay Aiken Pay Tribute

american idolFans and contestants are in mourning. Vocal coach Debra Byrd has died at age 72.

Byred reportedly passed away in a California home. At this time, the cause of death was not reported. Former american idol Contestants Jennifer Hudson and Clay Aiken paid tribute to the singer.

Hudson wrote on Instagram: “Heartbroken by the passing of American Idol vocal coach Debra Byrd. She encouraged and supported us from the beginning! I am very grateful for everything she taught us. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy lives on through the music of countless artists she influenced during her lifetime. Rest in peace, Debra.”

He also shared a clip from his time on the show.

american idol Student Clay Aiken also mourned the singer’s death. He reflected on the lessons she taught him during her time on the show.

“I don’t think it’s an exaggeration to say that no one was a better mentor, coach, teacher or champion to us Idol contestants than Byrd,” Clay Aiken said. “No one spent more time with us. I will never forget her explaining to us how we needed to look directly into the camera and connect with the audience at home. She was a light in so many lives. “I am very lucky to be able to call her a friend.”

Debra Byrd off ‘American Idol’

Outside american idoll, Byrd toured with Bob Dylan and Barry Manilow. He toured with Dylan’s “Hard to Handle: Bob Dylan in Concert” in Australia. Additionally, he performed on Broadway, most notably appearing in the role of Da Singer for Bring ‘Da Noise, bring ‘Da Funk.

For his acting work, he earned a Black Theater Alliance Award nomination for It could be magic. She also starred Barry Manilow on Broadway among other productions.

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Manilow paid tribute to Byrd and expressed his sorrow at his passing. He considered it one of the saddest days of his life. More than just artists, Byrd and Manilow were also good friends.

“This is one of the saddest days of my life. “I just can’t wrap my head around the fact that Debra is no longer with me,” she wrote via Deadline. “She was one of the most wonderful friends I have ever had. I will miss you forever, my love.”

Categories: Biography
Source: vcmp.edu.vn

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