Leah LaBelle Vladowski was an American singer. She rose to prominence in 2004 as a contestant on the third season of American Idol, placing twelfth in the season finals. In 2007, LaBelle began recording covers of R&B and soul music for her YouTube channel. These videos led to work as a backing vocalist starting in 2008 and a record deal in 2011 with Epic in partnership with I Am Other and So So Def Recordings. LaBelle released a sampler, three singles, and a posthumous extended play (EP).
As a teenager LaBelle performed in the Total Experience Gospel Choir and was mentored by Pat Wright, seen here in 2016.
Keri Hilson, pictured here in 2009, became a mentor for LaBelle after hiring her as a backing vocalist.
LaBelle performing at the Crocodile Cafe in Seattle in October 2013
The third season of American Idol premiered on Monday, January 19, 2004, and continued until May 26, 2004. The third season was won by Fantasia Barrino, who defeated Diana DeGarmo by an approximate margin of 2% ; the vote total was then the highest recorded vote total in the show's history. This season also featured future EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson, who finished seventh in the competition.
Back standing – Leah LaBelle, Jennifer Hudson, Fantasia Barrino, John Stevens, Matthews Rogers, Amy Adams, Jon Peter Lewis Seated – Camile Velasco, Jasmine Trias, LaToya London, Diana DeGarmo, George Huff
Aboard USS Blue Ridge, Machinist's Mate 1st Class William Velasco watches his daughter Camile Velasco perform.
