Idol Chatter & Voice Views

Wow, I returned to work today to learn that the mega-talented American Idol cast from Season 7 had lost one of its members.

Michael Johns died Friday at age 35, reportedly from a blood clot in his ankle. He’s the first Idol finalist to pass away since the show began 13 years ago.

Michael finished eighth back in Season 7, then quickly proved he was better than that with the post-Idol music he released.

His post-Idol album “Hold Back My Heart” was one of my favorite Idol albums released that year.

Unfortunately, way too little Michael Johns music followed — just a three-song EP called “Love and Sex” in 2012 and a single “Day Breaks Sun” from earlier this year.

His Season 7 cast mates say he’ll be sorely missed.

From Twitter:

David Archuleta: “Remembering a friend this weekend, Michael Johns, and keeping his family in my prayers. You’ll be missed, Australian buddy.”

Kristy Lee Cook: “RIP to @MichaelJohns my friend from American idol. He was such a fun person to be around and was always making us laugh.”

Carly Smithson: “I don’t even know what to say or how to feel. I was so strong yesterday but today I’m just a mess. My buddy is gone forever. #MichaelJohns”

Ramiele Malubay: “I’ll always remember you as the big brother who made interviews less scary. The biggest joker, hands down. And one of the most insanely talented vocalists. You definitely knew how to make everyone laugh and make light of every insanely intense situation. I often think of you on days I feel I need some real good music to make me feel better.”

Amanda Overmyer: “MICHAEL JOHNS will be remembered by @AmericanIdol Season 7 Family as a joker with a great sense of humor and kept everbody laughing … -AO”

David Hernandez: “You will be missed bro. My heart is heavy for you and your family who are always in my thoughts and prayers. My memories of sharing the stage with you during a life changing experience will never be forgotten.

Brooke White immediately decided the 140 characters allowed by Twitter would never be enough and posted her sentiments to Facebook. Her tribute reads in part: “I just had the thought the other day while driving down the freeway, that if someone asked me who my favorite male voice was it’d be Michael johns. Man I wish I had picked up the phone to tell him that, but I didn’t. He was stupidly talented, handsome, charismatic, funny and quite a complicated character … Michael Johns, we will miss you hard… you will always be my favorite Australian.”

Here’s Michael singing “This is Goodbye,” one of the songs from that brilliant 2009 album.