Mandisa Lynn Hundley american gospel and contemporary christian recording artist died she was 47

Mandisa, was an American gospel and contemporary Christian recording artist. She began her solo career as a contestant in the fifth season of American Idol finishing in ninth place. With her album Overcomer winning in the Best Contemporary Christian Music Album category, she became the fifth American Idol alumnus to win a Grammy.

(October 2, 1976 – April 18, 2024),

Mandisa Lynn Hundley, known mononymously as Mandisa, graced the world with her powerful voice and unwavering faith. Born on October 2, 1976, she left an indelible mark on the gospel and contemporary Christian music scene. Let us celebrate her life and legacy in this heartfelt tribute.

Early Life and Musical Journey

Mandisa was born in Citrus Heights, California, where she spent her formative years. Her passion for music blossomed early, and she pursued her dreams with unwavering determination. After graduating from El Camino Fundamental High School, she embarked on a musical journey that would touch countless hearts.

Her studies led her to American River College in Sacramento, where she delved into vocal jazz.

But it was at Tennessee’s Fisk University that Mandisa truly found her voice. As a proud member of the university’s renowned “Jubilee Singers,” she honed her craft and graduated in 2000 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in music.

From Backup Singer to Solo Star

Before her solo career took flight, Mandisa lent her remarkable vocals as a recording session backup singer. Collaborating with artists like Sandi Patty, Shania Twain, and Trisha Yearwood, she contributed her talent to the music industry behind the scenes.

But destiny had grander plans for Mandisa. In 2005, she stepped onto the stage of the iconic talent competition television show, American Idol. With her soul-stirring performances, she captured hearts and left an indelible impression. Referring to herself simply as “Mandisa,” she became a household name.

The Weight of Words

During her American Idol journey, Mandisa faced both triumphs and challenges. Judge Simon Cowell made remarks about her weight, sparking controversy. His quip, “Do we have a bigger stage this year?” echoed through the airwaves. And when Paula Abdul likened Mandisa’s voice to a “Frenchie” growl, Cowell humorously suggested that the comparison was more fitting for France itself.

These comments ignited a fire within Mandisa. She channeled her emotions into her music, creating her 2007 album, True Beauty. It was a powerful response to societal expectations and a celebration of inner strength.

Overcomer: A Grammy-Winning Triumph

Mandisa’s resilience and unwavering faith shone brightly. Her album Overcomer soared to

victory, winning the Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album. In doing so, she became the fifth American Idol alumnus to claim this prestigious honor.

Her voice, infused with hope and conviction, resonated far beyond the stage. Mandisa’s legacy lives on, inspiring listeners to overcome adversity, embrace their true selves, and find beauty in every moment.

A Final Note

On April 18, 2024, Mandisa’s earthly journey came to an end, but her music continues to uplift souls. As we remember her, let us celebrate the woman who sang with courage, defied stereotypes, and reminded us all that true beauty lies within.

Did you know that Mandisa album Overcomer won a grammy for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album category?

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Terry Carter was an accomplished American actor and filmmaker who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry died he was 95

Terry Carter was an accomplished American actor and filmmaker who left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry. Born John Everett DeCoste on December 16, 1928, in Brooklyn, New York, Carter had a diverse background, with a mother from the Dominican Republic and a father of Argentinian and African-American descent.

(December 16, 1928 – April 23, 2024)

After graduating from Stuyvesant High School in Manhattan, Carter pursued higher education, attending several institutions, including Hunter College, UCLA, Boston University, and Northeastern University. It was at Northeastern that he eventually completed his Bachelor of Science degree in communications in 1983, decades after initially dropping out.Carter's acting career began on the stage, with several productions on Broadway and off-Broadway. His Broadway credits included playing the male lead opposite the legendary Eartha Kitt in the play "Mrs. Patterson" and performing the title role in the musical extravaganza "Kwamina."In the 1960s, Carter transitioned to television, working as a weekend newscaster for WBZ-TV in Boston. During his three-year stint, he became known as the world's first black TV newsman and served as New England television's first black opening-night movie and theater critic. However, his departure from the station was not without controversy, as he claimed he had been fired due to Westinghouse's (the station's owner) objections to his involvement in numerous community projects.Throughout his career, Carter appeared in numerous television series, specials, and theatrical

films. He was a regular cast member of the popular sitcom "The Phil Silvers Show," playing the role of Pvt. Sugie Sugarman in 91 episodes between 1955 and 1959. He also had roles in other notable shows, such as "Breaking Point," "Combat!," and the children's film "Benji."Carter's most well-known role, however, was as Colonel Tigh in the original "Battlestar Galactica" television series. He was initially cast as Lieutenant Boomer but was later offered the role of Tigh, the second-in-command of the ragtag fleet of starships, making the series notable for having more than one regular African-American character in the principal cast.

In addition to his acting work, Carter was also a prolific producer and director. In 1975, he founded a small Los Angeles-based production company, Meta/4 Productions, Inc., through which he produced and directed industrial and educational presentations for the federal government. He also served as the president of Council for Positive Images, Inc., a non-profit organization he formed in 1979, dedicated to enhancing intercultural and interethnic understanding through audiovisual communication.Under the Council's auspices, Carter produced and directed award-winning dramatic and documentary programs for presentation on PBS and distribution worldwide. Some of his notable projects include the dance documentary "Katherine Dunham Technique," the musical documentary "A Duke Named Ellington," and the historical drama "Once Upon A Vision."Terry Carter passed away on April 23, 2024, in New York City, at the age of 95. His legacy as an accomplished actor, producer, and director, as well as his pioneering work in television and his dedication to promoting cross-cultural understanding, will undoubtedly continue to inspire and influence generations to come.

Awards

• Emmy Award, Los Angeles, Best Series for Children and Youth, 1985, for K*I*D*S
• Emmy Nomination, Best Informational Special, 1989, for A Duke Named Ellington
• CINE Golden Eagle, 1989, for A Duke Named Ellington
• Golden Antenna, 1989, for A Duke Named Ellington
• Award for Excellence, L. A. Film Review Board, 1977, for Child Abuse & Neglect Series

Did you know that Terry Carter won an Emmy Award in Los Angeles, for Best Series for Children and Youth, 1985, for K*I*D*S

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Michael Thomas Pinder: The Mellotron Maestro of the Moody Blues died he was 82

Michael Thomas Pinder was an English rock musician who left an indelible mark on the music world as the founding member and original keyboardist of the legendary band, the Moody Blues. 

 (27 December 1941 – 24 April 2024) 

Pinder was born on December 27, 1941, in Erdington, Birmingham, and was nicknamed "Mickey the Moon Boy" in his youth due to his fascination with space and rocket ships - themes that would recur throughout his songwriting career. 1In 1964, Pinder, along with Ray Thomas, Denny Laine, Clint Warwick, and Graeme Edge, formed the Moody Blues. Their initial single "Steal Your Heart Away" failed to chart, but their second release, "Go Now," became a UK number-one hit in 1965. 1Pinder and Laine were the primary songwriters for the band in the early years, penning B-sides and hit singles like "Everyday," "From the Bottom of My Heart," and "Life's Not Life." 1Pinder was renowned for his pioneering use of the Mellotron, a keyboard instrument that could reproduce the sounds of orchestral instruments, which became a signature element of the Moody Blues' lush, symphonic sound. 14In 1967, Pinder and the band embraced the emerging practice of Transcendental Meditation,
which influenced the philosophical and introspective nature of their music. 

2Pinder's first marriage to Donna Roth ended in divorce, but he later married an American, Tara Lee, with whom he had two sons, Matt and Michael Lee, who are both musicians. Pinder's eldest son, Daniel, is a successful film music editor and consultant. 1In 2018, Pinder was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of the Moody Blues, but he chose not to give an acceptance speech, stating that "the fans are my hall of fame." 3Pinder left the Moody Blues in 1978 following the recording of the band's ninth album,

"Octave," and spent his later years in northern California, where he continued to collaborate with his sons on musical projects. 23Sadly, Pinder passed away on April 24, 2024, at the age of 82, after a long battle with dementia. 34Michael Thomas Pinder's legacy as a pioneering keyboardist, innovative songwriter, and founding member of the Moody Blues will continue to inspire musicians and fans alike for generations to come.

Did you know that the Michael Pinder was the last surviving member of the Moody Blues’ original lineup?

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