Actress Shonka Dukureh, 44, was found dead in her Nashville apartment

In Baz Luhrmann's biopic, the gospel singer portrayed rhythm and blues legend Big Mama Thornton.

Digital Desk: Shonka Dukureh, a Nashville musician who played singer Big Mama Thornton in the recent "Elvis" film, died Thursday, according to officials. 

The Metro Nashville Police Department said in a statement that Dukureh was discovered dead in her Nashville apartment, where she lived with her two young children.

One of Dukureh's kids discovered her unresponsive in a bedroom shortly before 9:30 a.m., according to police. 

The police also stated the child fled to a neighbor's apartment for assistance.

Although no foul play is suspected, an autopsy will be performed to determine the exact cause of death; according to police, no additional information was provided.

The mayor of Nashville, John Cooper, paid tribute to Dukureh on Twitter, writing, "We honour her memory on this sad day," referring to her "powerful voice and artistry, which will live on through her music."