MEAWW.COM / NEWS / CELEBRITY NEWS

How did Carman Licciardello die? Christian singer hailed as 'legend' as fans mourn loss of 'childhood favorite'

The love of music for the artist started quite young as he played the drums at the age of 5, learned the guitar by 15 and started singing at 16

Carmelo Domenic Licciardello, most popularly known by his stage name Carman, died on February 16 at a hospital in Las Vegas, Nevada, at the age of 65. He was a contemporary Christian music singer and songwriter, along with being a TV host, life coach and Evangelist. As a musician, Carman left behind quite a legacy and was also known as the "enigma in Christian music".

Reports indicate that he also held the largest Christian concert ever in Dallas, Texas. The love of music for the artist started quite young as he played the drums at the age of 5, learned the guitar by 15 and started singing at 16. The singer who studied acting at the Abbey Playhouse in Philadelphia came into the music industry in 1982 and then set up Carman Ministries and Carman World Outreach. His manager Matt Felts said, "This world has lost a light in the darkness but today Carman saw first hand the fruit of his labors."

RELATED ARTICLES

How did Milford Graves die? Fans mourn free-Jazz drummer's tragic death at 79: ‘He could have lived to be 500’

What was Johnny Pacheco's net worth? A look at Salsa legend's marriage with Cuqui Pacheco before death at 85

How did Carman die?

As per reports by HITC, the Christian singer's cause of death is said to be "complications resulting from surgery to repair a hiatal hernia". CBN News reported that the singer's Facebook page was updated on Tuesday, confirming that the legendary artist died after "fighting a series of complications" from the mentioned surgery. The GMA Gospel Music Hall of Fame member had just celebrated his 65th birthday on January 19, 2021. Three weeks prior to his death, the publication revealed that he had undergone hernia surgery that led to life-threatening ailments including internal bleeding, organ failure and pneumonia.

In the year 2013, the musician had been diagnosed with incurable multiple myeloma cancer which was followed by years of recovery. Unfortunately, cancer had reportedly returned last year. Last week, his team had taken to Carman's Facebook page writing, "Due to his long fight with cancer and the effect that has on the body, his bounce back from this has been slower than he would like. He appreciates all of the care and prayers you have sent his way."

'You were iconic for so many church kids'

Speaking of Carman's incredible impact on his fans, Christian music artist Jason Crabb, a two-time Grammy winner said, "There will never be another Carman. His was the very first CCM concert I ever attended. I'll never forget going to Roberts Municipal Stadium in Evansville, IN with my youth group – I think every youth group went to see him. He was a trendsetter and a trailblazer, who had a vision to impact his audience with groundbreaking music and storytelling through powerful, cinematic videos all with one purpose: to point people to Jesus. I know there are millions today who accepted Christ at one of his concerts. As kids, I remember me and my friends acting out his song, "The Champion." He made it cool to be a Christian. Never in a million years would I think that 25 years later I would get to know this man and call him a friend. Carman, we will miss you, but I know we will see you again."

Many fans took to Twitter to express the sadness at the trailblazer's death. "Rest In Peace Carman. His music has meant so much to me over the years and has helped me through some rough spots in my life," wrote one fan. Another added, "Carman definitely helped shape my spiritual life. To say this is Heaven's gain is an understatement." His legacy will live on as many grew up listening to his music. One user wrote, "#RIP To my childhood favorite Carman. You were iconic for so many church kids who desperately wanted to hear something different. I’ll cherish the memories made with your songs."

Jay DeMarcus, Rascal Flatts member and owner of the Christian music label Red Street Records, also spoke of Carman's death saying, "Carman and I were label mates at Benson Records in the early '90s when I was in East to West, and we toured together. Neal and I were on his show on TBN, 'Times Two.' He will forever leave his mark on Christian music with songs like, 'The Champion', 'Radically Saved,' and 'Revival in the Land' among others, that will remain timeless. Carman's stage shows were without equal, he was inspiring to watch. He was the consummate pro, and I was proud to call him my friend. It would be hard to fathom how many millions were led to Christ through his music and ministry. He will be missed but never forgotten."

Many also recounted their personal experiences with the music artist with one singer Kevin Young writing, "I saw Carman many times growing up. Free concerts in packed arenas (my dream) and would preach the gospel and hundreds would to give their life to Christ. His ministry (and a few others) inspired me to bold about sharing Jesus through music. Thank you Carman, Rest in glory." Another user added, "Carman was the first concert I EVER went to. My dad took me and I will never forget that purple suit! We used to rent Carman VHS tapes on the weekends from the Christian bookstore. If I get randomly spooked I STILL sing his song to myself. Whew." Film and TV producer Jake Vale also tweeted a picture with the artist writing, "Carman, you were a legend in Christian music and although I’ve only known you for 8 months, a good friend. I promise, I’ll see our project through till the end and lives will be changed. "

Many also took to the social media channel tweeting Rest in Peace as they flooded the timelines with old school pictures of the late Christian artist.