A former American Idol contestant has passed away, and medical personnel have confirmed the cause of death to be a heart attack. The talented act died at the Walker Baptist Medical Center in Jasper, Alabama.
Keep reading for the details.
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CJ Harris
The 31-year-old singer, who finished sixth on American Idol in 2014 was rushed to the emergency room by ambulance and died shortly after arriving.
Cause Of Death
The Walker County Coroner reports to news outlets that medical officials at the hospital where he was rushed to have stated the cause of his death to be a heart attack and won’t be needing an autopsy.
Family Members Are Shocked
Harris’s friends and families are shocked and surprised at the sudden death of the talent who was strong and hearty for days and even hours leading to the incident.
Top 6 On American Idol
Fans remember him as a contestant on the 13th season of the competition series and made it to the top 6 in 2014.
His version of the Allman Brothers Band’s “Soulshine” got the judges’ attention and buzz from all four. The judges then included Jennifer Lopez, Harry Connick Jr and Keith Urban. He auditioned first in Tuscaloosa and then in Salt Lake City, Utah.
Many Trials
American Idol wasn’t his first shot at competitive singing. He initially tried out his luck for the X-Factor and The Voice but was rejected.
Commendation From Keith Urban
His soulful rendition earned him an accolade from Urban , who told him “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.”
He then sang Too Close, American Woman, and Free Fallin’.
American Idol’s Statement
The network has expressed shock and sadness at the news of Harris’s passing, acknowledging that he was an “incredible talent.”
Auditioning For American Idol
Back in 2014, he told The Hollywood Reporter how he auditioned for American Idol impromptu.
Life After American Idol
The 31-year-old didn’t stop his musical pursuit following his exit from the show. Harris performed at the Grand Ole Opry with Darius Rucker after he moved to Nashville, and he was also included in the American Idol’s season 13 tour.
Some of his strongest influences were John Legend, John Mayer, and Keith Urban.
