One of the most successful and renowned voice coaches, Debra Byrd, has passed away at the age of 72. Debra worked with an extensive range of hugely popular music-themed television shows, which included programs such as “American Idol,” “Canadian Idol,” and “The Voice,” alongside her work as a personal coach for some of the biggest names in the music industry. Some of the musical celebrities she’s coached over the years have included Bob Dylan, Kelly Clarkson, Jennifer Hudson, and Barry Manilow.
Debra died on March 5 at her residence in Los Angeles; no cause of death has been released to the public. One of her most famous protégés, Jennifer Hudson, who was a finalist in the 2004 American Idol season, stated: “Heartbroken over the passing of Debra Byrd, the vocal coach on American Idol. She encouraged and supported us from the very beginning! I am so grateful for everything she taught us. She will be dearly missed, but her legacy lives on through the music of countless artists she influenced during her lifetime. Rest in peace, Debra.”
Debra was a former band member of Lady Flash in the 1970s. As the backing group for Barry Manilow, the band enjoyed a great deal of success in the music industry. During her musical career, Debra had an acting career that included an acclaimed starring role in the national touring company of the Broadway hit “Bring In ‘Da Noise, Bring In ‘Da Funk,” which was followed by a nomination in 2001 from the Black Theatre Alliance Awards for her part in “Could It Be Magic.” In addition, her singing success extended to the world of cinema, where she appeared on the soundtracks of such popular films as “The Lion King” and “Sister Act II.”
Debra was the chair of the vocal department at the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles, and she was also appointed an artist in residence at the prestigious Berklee College of Music. Her passing has caused extensive grief and mourning for the music industry, which appreciated her artistry, talent, and expertise
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