Debra Byrd

Debra Byrd (July 19, 1951 – March 5, 2024) was an American vocalist and vocal coach whose career spanned Broadway performance, studio and touring work, and television coaching. Her Broadway appearances extended from 1976 to 1997 and included productions such as Ain't Misbehavin', The Human Comedy, André DeShields' Haarlem Nocturne, and Bring in 'Da Noise, Bring in 'Da Funk, as well as Barry Manilow on Broadway.

Beyond the stage, Byrd built a substantial career as a backing vocalist. From 1974 to 1979 she sang with Barry Manilow as a member of his backup group, a professional relationship that also extended to his Broadway engagement. She additionally worked with Bob Dylan as a backing vocalist and contributed vocal work to the Hub Television series Majors and Minors.

Byrd became widely recognized in the television industry through her long tenure as head vocal coach on American Idol, a role she held for ten seasons. She also coached contestants on the short-lived American Juniors and served as vocal coach for all six seasons of Canadian Idol, in both cases singing backup for the competitors. In late 2006 she participated as a judge on Military Idol, a singing competition open exclusively to members of the U.S. Army.

Byrd died on March 5, 2024, at the age of 72.