On Sunday night (April 20), all of American Idol’s remaining Season 23 contestants gave gospel-inspired performances. The special three-hour episode was a celebration of Easter Sunday.
The episode, titled “Songs of Faith,” also included performances from guest artists, including CeCe Winans, Roman Collins, Jelly Roll, Brandon Lake, and The Brown Four. Even all three of the show’s judges took the stage to sing throughout the night.
A moment that really stood out during the episode was Idol hopeful Jamal Roberts’ rendition of the gospel song “Forever” by Jason Nelson.
Jamal Roberts is a school teacher and father of two from Mississippi. Since his very first audition, he’s stayed true to his soulful style.
He impressed the judges with his audition performance of “Mary Jane” and earned a “yes” from all three judges. During the Showstopper Round in Hollywood, he sang powerful covers of songs from Chris Stapleton and Teddy Swims.
Jamal made it into the season’s Top 24 and chose to sing Jelly Roll’s “Liar” for his performance. For those who don’t know, Jelly Roll is American Idol’s first-ever “Artist in Residence,” where he helps guide contestants through the season.
He was there to watch Jamal perform his song, and the emotional moment moved Jelly Roll to tears.
“You brought a tear to me, Jamal,” Jelly Roll said. “Man, that wasn’t a performance. You were testifying. I feel the pain in your voice. You can’t teach that. I am your champion. You are representing a group of misrepresented people.”
When it was time for Jamal to perform, he chose to sing “Forever” by Jason Nelson.
Nelson is a highly admired urban contemporary gospel singer and musician. His song “Forever” was released on his 2018 album The Answer.
As he’s done all season long, Jamal delivered a show-stopping performance of “Forever” on the Idol Easter special. The song gave him the chance to showcase the range and power of his voice, both of which are immense.
The judges appeared flabbergasted (in a good way) by Jamal’s performance. Luke Bryan summed things up perfectly when he said that Jamal has “just got that magic.”
Lionel Richie added, “You are slaying it buddy, you are slaying it.”
