Sunday Best Season two finalist Dontavies Boatwright passed away today.
Boatwright, 33, died of a heart attack this morning. He collapsed after complaining of chest pains, and paramedics were unable to revive him.
The news comes as a shock to fans and the Gospel community, as a young Dontavies was preparing for the release of his new album scheduled to hit stores in the fall of 2013.
Expressions from Dontavies Boatwight’s peers are all ready pouring in. Rising star Isaac Carree called Boatwright a wonderful singer with a wonderful spirit.
“Dontavies was a true brother and friend! I’m still sitting here in disbelief. May he rest in peace and sing around heaven with his soul stirring baritone voice! Love you man,” said season two winner, Y’Anna Crawley.
“He was a man of dignity with a powerful voice. His character spoke for himself – very professional and a heart of Gold. He will be missed,” said finalist Maurice Griffin.
Boatwright captivated the Sunday Best audience with his rendition of ‘How Great is Our God,’ and recently released a single modeled after Fred Hammond’s classic ‘Glory to Glory.’
Boatwright’s debut single “Glory to Glory-Sunday Best Medley” was greeted with enthusiasm as his Sunday Best fans finally heard a new offering from the singer.
The song, a blend of two Fred Hammond classics: ‘Glory to Glory’ and ‘Blessed’, was arranged by Boatwright while on season 2 of the hit gospel program.
“I decided to let this be the song I start with because it would be what many will remember about me from Sunday Best”, Boatwright says. “I am grateful for the opportunity and platform that the show gave me, and releasing this first song is in part tribute and thanks to the show and all the viewers, and a salute to one of my favorite artists, Mr. Fred Hammond”!
The death of Boatwright reminds all of us that life can never be taken for granted, regardless of our age. Keep the Boatwright family in your prayers.
