Former ‘American Idol’ contestant C.J. Harris dies at 31

“American Idol” alum C.J. Harris, who competed on Season 13 and positioned sixth total, died Sunday at age 31 following a medical emergency, a spokesperson for the Walker County Coroner confirmed to USA TODAY.

TMZ first reported the information, with a member of the family telling the outlet that Harris suffered a coronary heart assault. An official reason for loss of life has not been launched.

In 2014, Harris carried out the Allman Brothers’ “Soul Shine” in his audition, garnering reward from then-judge Keith City who stated, “You sing ‘trigger it’s important to sing, not ‘trigger you need to sing. And I imply that within the deepest approach. And that is why it is so plausible and actual.” Harris went on to sing songs together with John Mayer’s “Ready on the World to Change,” Tom Petty’s “Free Fallin'” and Darius Rucker’s “Radio” earlier than ending in sixth place. He launched his debut single, “In Love,” in 2019.

‘I am in shock’: ‘American Idol’ runner-up Willie Spence dies after a automobile crash at 23

The Alabama native spoke concerning the affect of his “Idol” expertise in a 2014 interview with AL.com.

“I grew up within the church, taking part in gospel music and singing within the choir. I assume I used to be just a little nervous to go on ‘Idol,’ as a result of I didn’t know if I used to be ready. I didn’t have the coaching,” Harris stated on the time. “Now, after I get on stage in entrance of those crowds, it doesn’t matter if I’ve my eyes closed. I don’t should preserve a digital camera view. I can settle down, chill out and be myself. Ever since I used to be just a little boy, I wished to see these lights on stage. Each time I get into my mattress proper after a present, I nonetheless can’t consider I’ve been on stage. I’m having much more enjoyable than I did on the TV present.”

In October, one other “American Idol” alum, Willie Spence, died at 23 after hitting the rear finish of a tractor-trailer that was stopped on the shoulder of an interstate, in response to studies by ABC Information and NBC Information citing a Tennessee Freeway Patrol report. He completed in second place on Season 19.

In November 2020, Nikki McKibbin, who completed in third place behind Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini on the primary season of “American Idol,” died at 42.

This text initially appeared on USA TODAY: C.J. Harris dies: ‘American Idol’ alum, 31, competed on Season 13