With a voice that blends raw emotion, soulful control, and sheer charisma, American Idol finalist Jamal Roberts continues to prove why he’s one of Season 23’s most talked-about talents. Whether he’s commanding the Idol stage or delivering stripped-down covers from the front seat of his car, Roberts brings one thing every time: heart.
Fresh off a high-energy performance of “Shout,” Roberts turned heads once again—this time with a smooth, intimate car cover of The Isley Brothers’ classic “For the Love of You.” Sitting in the front seat, the Mississippi native let his vocals take center stage, weaving buttery tones, stunning control, and emotional depth into a rendition many fans have already called “replay-worthy” and even “better than the original.” One soaring high note in particular left listeners speechless—and reminded everyone why Roberts is more than a contestant; he’s a storyteller.
His soulful cover follows another major milestone: making it into the Top 10 on American Idol with a jaw-dropping performance of Tom Odell’s “Heal.” Known for his onstage swagger and rich vocal tone, Roberts dialed back the theatrics and let vulnerability lead the way. The result? A standing ovation and resounding praise from all three judges.
“You’ve got the voice and you know how to tell a story,” said Lionel Richie.
Luke Bryan added, “You’re just singing it from the heart.” Guest mentor Carrie Underwood echoed the sentiment, saying, “You can’t walk around with that big ole voice and not have the rest of you being like, ‘Yeah!’ You’re so good.”
That “big ole voice” has been captivating fans since Roberts’ first audition—an unexpected, soulful take on Rick James’ “Mary Jane” that left the judges stunned and won him a Golden Ticket to Hollywood. A PE teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, Roberts arrived at Idol as a bit of an underdog—but has quickly become a fan favorite thanks to his authenticity, versatility, and magnetic presence.
And it’s not just on TV. From viral car covers like Jamie Foxx’s “Wedding Vows” to his gospel-infused take on The Temptations, Roberts’ unofficial performances are building just as much momentum online. No fancy stage. No production crew. Just a man, a voice, and a message.
With every note, Jamal Roberts is showing that real artistry lives beyond bright lights—it lives in the lived-in truths of everyday people who dare to dream. Whether crooning from the Idol stage or his car dashboard, Roberts continues to remind us: soul can’t be faked, and heart can’t be taught.
The world is watching. More importantly, it’s listening.
