Free Republic

Soulful gospel artist Mandisa, a Grammy-winning singer who got her start as a contestant on “American Idol” in 2006, has died, according to a statement on her verified social media. She was 47. “We can confirm that yesterday Mandisa was found in her home deceased. At this time we do not know the cause of death or any further details,” the post reads. “We ask for your prayers for her family and close knit circle of friends during this incredibly difficult time. Mandisa was a voice of encouragement and truth to people facing life’s challenges all around the world.” Mandisa...

The day after winning two Grammys for "Best Contemporary Christian Music Song" and "Best Contemporary Christian Music Album," Christian music artist Mandisa explained why she decided to skip out on the awards ceremony. "I have been struggling with being in the world, not of it lately. I have fallen prey to the alluring pull of flesh, pride, and selfish desires quite a bit recently," she wrote on her Facebook, including a reference to 1 John 2:15-16. "Don't fall in love with this corrupt world or worship the things it can offer. Those who love its corrupt ways don't have the...

always for Tammy

Is ousted "American Idol" contestant Mandisa anti-gay? The 29-year-old soul singer and outspoken Christian, who was voted off the hit Fox show Wednesday, says she would not perform at an event held in support of the gay community. Mandisa, a native of Antioch, Tenn., tells Advocate magazine, "Based on what I believe, I'm not an advocate for (being gay), so it's nothing I would take part in." Still, she says in an interview in the magazine's Web site, she's "really upset" by speculation she endorses the ex-gay movement _ a collection of Christian groups that seek to alter sexual orientation....