How did 17 year old The Voice Kids star Karen Silva die? Cause of death revealed

The death of Brazilian young singer Karen Silva, who passed away on Thursday, April 24, at the age of just 17, has devastated the music industry. Karen, who rose to fame as a semi-finalist in the 2020 season of The Voice Kids Brazil, died from complications related to a hemorrhagic stroke. A heartfelt post on her official Instagram verified her passing.

Karen Silva had been pursuing her passion for some time before capturing people’s hearts at age twelve with a voice that was well beyond her years.

She started singing at the age of eight, wanting to learn every note of the Edwin Hawkins Singers' "Oh Happy Day," according to her vocal instructor. The groundwork for a promising career that ended far too soon was laid by that passion and natural talent, which immediately attracted attention.

Since the news broke, tributes have poured in from fans and fellow musicians alike. For many, especially young Black girls who saw themselves in her, Karen wasn’t just a rising star—she was a beacon of inspiration.

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Remembering The Voice Kids star Karen Silva

Karen Silva's journey to recognition began at an early age when she developed a passion for singing. Her first vocal coach, Lana Netto, recalled the young performer's natural ability.

"After just a few lessons, she sang the song and enchanted everyone with her striking voice," Netto said, according to The Daily Mail.

Declaring:

"From that day on, Karen never stopped singing and captivating people."

Karen Silva’s rise was nothing short of electric. At just 12 years old, she broke through in 2020 as a semi-finalist on The Voice Kids Brazil, a stage where the country's most gifted young voices, ages 7 to 15, fight for their moment in the spotlight. And Karen? She immediately made her mark on the hearts of fans all over Brazil with a voice that was much beyond her years and a personality that drew you in.

Over the ensuing years, Karen refined her sound, developed her artistic abilities, and observed her fan base expand in tandem with her. Her performances were powerful; they were hauntingly mature, technically impressive, and emotionally driven. However, something changed just as her fame appeared about to soar even higher.

Signs of concern first emerged on April 21, when a cryptic post appeared on her Instagram. She was facing health issues, it said—no details, just enough to spark concern. Three days later, that quiet unease turned into heartbreak.

"Singer Karen Silva is facing a health problem and, at the moment, she is still under medical care, with the support and affection of her family and team," the post stated.

Further commenting:

"We ask for respect, empathy and prayers as she recovers peacefully. Any updates will be made by our official channels. We thank everyone for the love."

Just three days later, a follow-up post announced her passing, confirming she had suffered a hemorrhagic stroke. A hemorrhagic stroke occurs when a blood vessel ruptures in or near the brain, causing bleeding that damages brain tissue.

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A lasting legacy

The announcement of Karen Silva's death highlighted her significance beyond her musical talents.

"Karen enchanted Brazil with her powerful voice and striking presence even in childhood, when she participated in The Voice Kids in 2020," the Instagram post noted.

Elaborating:

"Since then, she has followed a luminous path, uniting talent, charisma and representation at every step."

The statement emphasized her role as an inspiration for many:

"More than an up-and-coming artist, Karen was a symbol of empowerment, especially for Black girls who found in her inspiration and strength to dream. Her music, her message and her joy leave a deep mark on all who met her and followed her journey."

The post concluded with condolences to her parents, Manoella and Fernando, along with friends, family, and fans:

"May the memory of your light continue to guide us."

The influence that a young artist may make via genuine expression and commitment to their profession was exemplified by Karen Silva's brief career. Despite her time with us being cut short, her legacy will live on via the people she inspired because of her impact as a singer and role model, especially for young Black girls in Brazil.

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Karen Silva died on Thursday, April 24, 2025, following complications from a hemorrhagic stroke.