Former “American Idol” finalist Willie Spence, a singer who as a teen went viral with his rendition of Rihanna’s hit “Diamonds”, died Tuesday from injuries sustained in a car crash in Tennessee, according to Georgia news outlet Douglas Now.
The fan-favorite “Idol” contestant was the runner-up in the competition program’s 19th season last year. Chayce Beckham was the winner.
“We are devastated about the passing of our beloved American Idol family member, Willie Spence,” read the caption on a video of Spence’s “Idol” audition, posted on the show’s verified Instagram account. “He was a true talent who lit up every room he entered and will be deeply missed. We send our condolences to his loved ones.”
The 23-year-old singer was killed in a car accident in Tennessee on Tuesday, according to reports.
Spence was driving an SUV when he went off the road and crashed into a car that was stopped on the shoulder, according to the accident report.
TMZ also reported that a family member confirmed to them that Spence died after a crash.
The West Palm Beach, Florida native relocated with his family to Georgia as a child. It was while singing in his local high school that Spence was first discovered.
Over 15 million people have watched a 2017 video of him singing “Diamonds” in what appeared to be a school, which went viral.
He was invited to appear on Steve Harvey’s daytime talk program as a result of his performance. Spence also selected to perform the song on his 2021 “American Idol” audition.
Luke Bryan, Katy Perry, and Lionel Richie were the judges, and Spence completely blew them away. Richie called Spence “unbelievable,” and Bryan said he did not want the singer’s performance to stop.
