Simone Battle, a member of girl band G.R.L and a former contestant on the US ‘X-Factor has died at the age of 25.

The tragic news was confirmed in a joint statement released by Reign Deer Entertainment, Robin Antin, Kemosabe Records, and RCA Records which read, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic news of the loss of Simone Battle of G.R.L. Simone was an exceptional young talent and human being, and we are all devastated to learn of her passing. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family and loved ones at this time.”

Reports of the young singer's passing began circulating on Friday evening after record producer Derek Butler posted a picture of the singer on Instagram and wrote, "I'm still in shock and in disbelief to have confirmed the death of my childhood friend @SimoneBattle. Her heart was pure gold and her star power limitless. Rest in sweet peace Angel.” 

Her father Anthony E Battle told the MailOnline that his daughter will be “greatly missed and loved.” Adding, “She was an exuberant person and a very loved person.”

Simone first came to attention as a contestant on the 2011 US series of the 'X-Factor', where she was mentored by Simon Cowell. A year later she joined G.R.L., alongside Lauren Bennett, Emmalyn Estrada, Natasha Slayton and Paula van Oppen. The group had been put together by Robin Antin as the next generation Pussycat Dolls, they had just released the single ‘Ugly Heart’ in the UK last weekend.

The cause of Simone’s death has not yet been confirmed.