The Voice star Ryan Whyte Maloney dies by suicide aged 44
Topics: Mental Health, Las Vegas, Music
Emily Brown
Featured Image Credit: Gabe Ginsberg/Getty Images for Cheryl J. Kagan PR
Topics: Mental Health, Las Vegas, Music
Warning: This article contains discussion of suicide which some readers may find distressing.
Authorities in Las Vegas have confirmed former The Voice contestant Ryan Whyte Maloney has died at the age of 44.
News of Maloney's death was confirmed by The Clark County Coroner in Las Vegas, and comes after the singer experienced a long career in music, beginning when he was just a child.
The singer grew up in Michigan playing guitar, violin, cello, and drums, and in 2005, he recorded an album as the frontman of the progressive-rock group Indulge.
He went on to perform his tracks around the country, but it was in 2014 when he really stepped into the public eye thanks to his appearance on The Voice, where he performed a rendition of 'Lights' by Journey.
The singer's talents blew the judges away, and all four of them turned their chairs to show their support for him, but Maloney ended up joining Blake Shelton's team.
Maloney successfully made it through two Battle rounds and became one of Shelton's top five finalists, before returning to perform on the show's season finale.
Now, fans of the show are paying tribute to Maloney after The Clark County Coroner told People that Maloney has died by suicide.
Las Vegas country music radio station 107.9 Coyote Country wrote on Twitter: "The Coyote Country family is heartbroken to learn of the passing of Ryan Whyte Maloney.
"If you loved country music in Las Vegas, you knew Ryan’s unforgettable voice and songs. Thank you for the beautiful music that will live on in our hearts forever. #RyanWhyteMaloney."
Maloney's musical career continued after his time on The Voice, when he worked as a songwriter for other artists as well as a musician, engineer, and producer at studios. He shared stages with stars like Tim McGraw, Morgan Wallen, Shakira, Ushe,r and Ed Sheeran, had an ongoing residency at Shelton's venue Ole Red.
Some of his more recent singles include 'Don't Put Me in a Box', and 'Love with Nowhere to Go'.
Just one day before authorities confirmed his death, Maloney shared a video on his Instagram Story, in which he showed off a 'rock' gesture with his hand and said: "Nine fine Irishmen for a private party tonight, and we will be rocking."
If you or someone you know is struggling or in a mental health crisis, help is available through Mental Health America. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach the Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.