Details of Willie Spence’s remembrance were made public shortly after his passing. He lost his life in a car crash in Tennessee on October 11th, 2022, at the age of 23.
Willie Spence, a vocalist from Atlanta, Georgia, who secured the second position on season 19 of the renowned reality TV singing competition “American Idol.” He performed the Rihanna track “Diamonds” during his audition to qualify for the show.
Kya Monee participated in Season 4 of American Idol and presented a poignant duet of Rihanna’s “Stay” with participant Willie Spence, earning a standing ovation from all three judges and moving Perry to tears.
“That song held significant meaning for me,” Monee stated about the duet. “Following that, we developed a very close bond.”
She mentioned that it was Spence who encouraged her to return and give “Idol” another shot.
Just three days before his tragic accident, Willie advised Kya Monee, saying, ‘You should return. You have to pursue your dreams.’ She revealed that Spence was supposed to accompany her to her audition that day. Monee expressed that not having Spence by her side is one of the most challenging things to bear.
Monee commenced an “I’m Here” performance from “The Color Purple” musical. She wept throughout the performance and received a standing ovation from the emotional judges.
Her homage to the late Willie Spence was described as divinely guided by one of the judges on the show. The homage was heartfelt, moving, and splendid.
Regarding Spence, Richie remarked, “He was an incredible angel that God brought to the world, and he epitomized what ‘American Idol’ stands for.”
