In 2013, a 14-year-old girl named Skylir Hicks auditioned for one of the biggest shows in the world – America’s Got Talent. She made a big impression on judges Mel B, Keidi Klum, Howard Stern, and Howie Mandell with her original song, which she wrote after her father’s death.
“He made some bad decisions and I hadn’t seen him in a few years…After his funeral I wrote my first song,” she told them.
The song was called “Second Chances” and earned her a spot in the next round. Her AGT journey ended during the live rounds, but she made her mark on the series, and the world.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqx9_qXSYkU
After her AGT debut, Skilyr continued to play music, and created a YouTube channel that currently has over 5,000 subscribers. She hadn’t posted a video there since 2015, but she still had a decent following.
Sadly, Skilyr’s life was cut short when passed away at the young age of 23 on December 6, according to a Facebook post by her sister Breelyn.
“Monday night December 6th, 2021 will be a day I’ll never be able to forget. My sister, Skilyr Hicks passed away,” she wrote. “My super beautiful, extremely talented, hilarious, free spirit of a sister left this world to be with Jesus. I can’t possibly put into words how broken-hearted I am. I will miss her like crazy.”
Breelyn continued, “She had so much life left to live. Skilyr, I don’t know how I’ll be able to live without you. You were a light that shown brighter than ever. You were my best friend, you were my rock. We always had each other’s back no matter what. Just know that I love you unconditionally, That you will live on in our hearts, minds, memories, and through your God Given Musical Ability. Your Songs are your legacy. Fly High, Little Bird.”
TMZ reports that Skilyr was found dead at her friend’s house in Liberty, South Carolina. The publication also reports that the young singer battled mental health issues including depression and substance abuse. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family.
Watch another one of her original songs on AGT below.