Singer Curtis "CJ" Harris gained the world's attention when he appeared as a contestant on American Idol. Unfortunately, the star's fans will no longer hear from him as CJ recently passed away at 31. Here are the details of the singer's life and tragic demise.
CJ Harris, 31, Cause Of Death Revealed
Getty | Chelsea Lauren
CJ Tragically Dies
On January 15, 2023, fans of American Idol and CJ's family were thrown into mourning after the news of the young singer's death hit the internet. It was saddening as CJ had a bright future but died in his early thirties.
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The Cause Of CJ's Death Revealed
According to a report from Daily Mail, the artist seemed to suffer a heart attack and was taken by an ambulance to a local hospital in his hometown of Jasper, Alabama. Shortly after arriving at the emergency center, the crooner was pronounced dead.
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CJ Competed On 'American Idol' In 2014
CJ was among the most admired American Idol contestants in 2014, making it to the top six. During the singing competition, the late star struck a great relationship with Darius Rucker, who became his mentor.
The Road To 'American Idol'
Although CJ was successful on the show, his road to fame wasn't the smoothest. The singer first auditioned for The X-factor and The Voice but was unsuccessful. However, he chose not to give up, turning to American Idol season 13, where he made a big impression.
Inside CJ's Audition
The singer first auditioned in Tuscaloosa and then proceeded to Salt Lake City, Utah. There, CJ impressed the judges with his rendition of the Allman Brothers Band classic hit tune Soulshine. Judge Keith Urban told the late contestant:
"You sing 'cause you have to sing, not 'cause you want to sing. And I mean that in the deepest way. And that's why it's so believable and real."
CJ's Time On The Show
After his audition, CJ sang Too Close, American Woman, and Free Fallin'. Sadly, the singer didn't get enough votes in the semi-finals. However, the judges kept him as a wild card.
CJ Made It To The Top Six
Eventually, CJ made it to sixth place before his elimination. Following his appearance on the show, CJ found more success. He performed with Darius at The Grand Ole Opry. The young singer also played for audiences in the competition show's season 13 tour.
Tributes Pour In
Since CJ died, many have paid tribute to the singer and sent condolence to the deceased's family. In a Twitter post, the American Idol team described CJ as an incredible talent, adding that the news of his death was saddening. They concluded by noting he would be greatly missed.
More Tributes From Fans
Other netizens also took to social media to react to the news of a promising musical life cut short. One fan revealed it was heartbreaking, while a second user was shocked, adding that CJ was so young. Others prayed for CJ's soul to rest in peace, noting that he was a strong singer.
Unfortunately, CJ joins the list of entertainment stars like James Cann, Tony Sirico, Ray Liotta, Mary Mara, Margaret Keane, Naomi Judd, Robert Morse, Estelle Harris, etc, to leave the earth.
