I love music. We all do. All types of music exist and all of us lean one way or another when it comes to genres, voices, sounds, etc of music. One of the things that I enjoy is watching users on YouTube do covers of popular and unpopular songs in their own style and way. We all know the familiar songs, so it really speaks to me to hear peoples' original adaptations of the common tunes that top the charts.
When I was about 16, I discovered Christina Grimmie. Her voice echoed inside my soul and gave me chills the first time I ever heard her cover of "Never Say Never" by The Fray. Ever since that day, I have been a fan.
I subscribed to her channel, zeldaxlove64 on YouTube and watched her grow as an artist and eventually walk to fame on the popular TV show, The Voice. It was a joy to know that someone whose music I loved, appreciated, and respected, was going to receive the fame they very rightfully deserved and earned. I still show people her audition.
Then, on Friday, June 10th, 2016, after performing in Orlando, Florida, a man decided to take her life. If you want to read about that situation, you can go to any major news site and search her name.
For the purposes of this article, I will leave the details brief. The world lost an amazing young woman who has now reached the ears of so many people around the world and extended her happy-go-lucky personality into some dark corners. For that, I am so grateful.
I have personally made a bunch of GIFs that outline the wonderful, beautiful person that has left a footprint in my heart. A couple of them were originally made with sound, so I'm sorry for not having that!
From Christina Grimmie's first video, where she sang "Don't Wanna Be Torn" by Hannah Montana (LOL who's that anymore?), her talent was present, and it was special. She always picked great songs and sang them beautifully at her keyboard in front of her Sonic the Hedgehog poster!
She performed songs about personal things, and dedicated this one to her friend. "Pray" by Justin Bieber.
She's not all serious and music, either! She did a tutorial on how to do your hair like hers- all hail the magic poof- and had a moment with her blow dryer that cracked me up. She has multiple non-music videos that showcase her personality, including bloopers.
Listening to her music has always given me a positive vibe and outlook on things. Reminding me to keep looking up. Just like the line from Jason Mraz's "I Won't Give Up" which she covered in the above .gif.
After years of being an exclusively YouTube artist, Christina Grimmie took the chance of a lifetime and turned the chairs of all 4 judges on The Voice, including the man who went on to be a great friend and mentor, Adam Levine.
This NJ-bred girl turned into a superstar, but always maintained her same mentality about music, remaining passionate and kind. Staying original (and sassy).
The world has lost another truly amazing person, but she believed in God, and so I hope and pray for the day we can see her again.
R.I.P. Christina Grimmie, I will always be a fan.
