She was 72 and no cause or location was given.
Byrds students included Grammy winners, recording artists, actors, musicians and Broadway stars.
She worked closely with Kelly Clarkson, Fantasia, Jennifer Hudson, Bob Dylan,Barry Manilowand many others.
Debra ByrdGetty Images
They released one hit of their own in 1976, Street Singin.
The tune, which was written and arranged by Manilow, reached No.
27 on the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart.
This is one of the saddest days of my life, Manilow wrote on X/Twitter.
I just cant wrap around the fact that Debra Byrd is no longer with me.
She was one of the most wonderful friends Ive ever had.
I will miss you forever, my love.
This is one of the saddest days of my life.
No one spent more time with us.
She was a light in so many lives.
I am so lucky that I got to call her a friend.
Byrd worked with Dylan again on Band of the Hand with Tom Petty and Stevie Nicks.
She also gave voice lessons to Dylan.
She was nominated for a 2001 Black Theatre Alliance Award forCould It Be Magic.
Byrd was the vocal coach onAmerican Idolfrom the first episode through Season 10.
She was then tapped to be a vocal coach onThe Voice.
In the academic world, Byrd was chair of the vocal department at the Musicians Institute in Los Angeles.
She also served as an artist in residence at the prestigious Berklee College of Music.
No information on survivors or memorial plans was immediately available.
