Jamal Roberts’ performance of “First Time” by Teeks was one of his most heartfelt yet. The song choice, handpicked by mentor Jelly Roll, was a nod to the moment that first caught America’s attention: Roberts’ viral TikTok cover that launched his Idol journey. As Roberts took the stage in a crisp white suit, his calm confidence and charisma radiated. He moved through the crowd, connecting with fans, his voice smooth and deeply emotional.
The performance drew an immediate standing ovation from all three judges. Lionel Richie looked visibly moved, saying Roberts had found “his groove” and was “absolutely owning it.” Carrie Underwood told him, “You’ve got that magic mix — a voice that melts, a heart that shines, and stage presence that keeps getting better.” Luke Bryan applauded his growth, noting that his storytelling ability had gone “from good to world-class.”
Mentor Jelly Roll wiped away tears backstage, telling Seacrest later that watching Roberts perform that song live “felt like a full-circle moment.” He said, “The world’s about to see just how powerful Jamal Roberts is — not just as a singer, but as a soul we can all root for.”
With voting still open and the third-place finisher to be announced at the halfway mark of the show, Roberts’ fans had to act fast to keep him in the race for the title. As the first hour closed, energy in the studio was sky-high — and the competition was just getting started.
