CNN
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American Idol Season 19 runner-up Willie Spence, who rose to fame as a teenager for singing Rihanna’s hit “Diamonds,” died in a social media post Wednesday. confirmed.
he was 23 years old.
“We are devastated by the passing of beloved American Idol family member Willie Spence. Read the caption for Spence’s “Idol” audition video posted on the show’s verified Instagram account. “He was a true talent to light up every room he entered and will be deeply missed. We send our condolences to his loved ones.”
The singer died in a car accident in Tennessee on Tuesday, according to the sources. CNN Affiliate WSBciting the Marion County Sheriff’s Office.
According to the crash report, Spence was driving an SUV when he was hit by a car parked on the shoulder of the road.
TMZ also reports A family member confirmed to them that Spence had died after the crash.
CNN reached out to Spence’s representative.
Originally from West Palm Beach, Florida, he moved with his family to Georgia when he was a child. When Spence was first discovered, he was singing at a local high school.
Video of him singing “Diamonds” It went viral in 2017 in what looks like a classroom and has over 15 million views on YouTube.
This performance landed him a spot on Steve Harvey’s daytime talk show.he also chose spence Perform this song at the 2021 American Idol audition.
He blasted judges Lionel Richie, Katy Perry, and Luke Bryan, with Richie declaring Spence “unbelievable” and Bryan saying he didn’t want the singer’s performance to end.
“Because when you think about your future, when you think about the voice you have, you know it drives people astray. This is the magic you have. How will you be in five years?” Do you want to be?” Perry asked Spence. “What if nothing stood in your way in your wildest dreams?”
“I just want my voice to be heard in the world and my gift to be shared,” Spence replied.
‘American Idol’ season 5 runner-up Katherine McPhee Foster took me to her instagram A story that posts a tribute to Spence, whom he met on “Idol” during the season.
“Tonight we received very tragic news. Sweet @williespenceofficial passed away in a car accident,” she wrote on her Instagram story, along with a video of her and Spence from the show. 23 years old.Life is so unfair and nothing is promised.God rest Willie’s soul.It was an honor to sing with you and get to know you. did.”
She also shared his last Instagram post. Video of singing the Christian song “You Are My Hiding Place” in a car.