‘The Voice’ Alum Ryan Whyte Maloney Dies by Suicide at 44

LAS VEGAS, Nev. — Ryan Whyte Maloney, a musician and former contestant on NBC‘s ‘The Voice,’ died by suicide on Jan. 28, 2025, at the age of 44. The Clark County Office of the Coroner/Medical Examiner confirmed his death, ruling the cause as a gunshot wound to the head.

Maloney, who gained national attention during season six of ‘The Voice’ in 2014, was known for his powerful rendition of Journey‘s ‘Lights,’ which earned him a four-chair turn during his blind audition. He joined Blake Shelton‘s team and advanced to the top five finalists, later returning to perform in the season finale.

Born in Traverse City, Mich., in 1981, Maloney grew up playing multiple instruments, including the guitar, violin, cello, and drums. He rose to prominence as the frontman of the prog-rock band Indulge, releasing the album ‘Tomorrow's Another Day‘ in 2005. After a decade of touring, he transitioned to a solo career, recording his debut album ‘Where I’ve Been,’ produced by Sean O’Dwyer, known for his work with The Black Crowes and Roger Waters.

From 2010 to 2013, Maloney’s original songs, including ‘Hillbilly,’ ‘Michigan Moonlight,’ and ‘Living with No Directions,’ received airplay on country radio stations across Michigan, Nevada, Colorado, and California. In 2023, he released singles like ‘Don’t Put Me in a Box‘ and ‘Love with Nowhere to Go,’ continuing to build his legacy as a songwriter and performer.

Maloney maintained an active presence in the music scene, holding a residency at Blake Shelton’s Ole Red venue in Las Vegas in 2024. Throughout his career, he shared stages with notable acts such as Rascal Flatts and others, solidifying his reputation as a versatile and talented musician.

On Jan. 27, the day before his death, Maloney posted a video on Instagram from what appeared to be a bar, saying, ‘Nine fine Irishmen for a private party tonight, and we will be rocking,’ while flashing a rock hand gesture. The video has since expired, as Instagram stories do after 24 hours.

If you or someone you know is considering suicide, please contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by dialing 988, texting ‘STRENGTH’ to the Crisis Text Line at 741741, or visiting 988lifeline.org.