As the American Idol competition enters its most intense phase, Meridian, Mississippi’s own Jamal Roberts is proving he’s not just a powerful vocalist—he’s a powerhouse of heart, hustle, and hometown pride.
The 27-year-old Crestwood Elementary P.E. teacher, father of two, and former Sunday Best finalist has officially secured his spot in the Top 14 of Season 23 after America voted to keep him safe following his electrifying performance of Jason Nelson’s “Forever.”
And when host Ryan Seacrest announced the results, Roberts did what he always does—celebrated with joy, humility, and a whole lot of soul. Launching into Otis Redding’s “Try a Little Tenderness” for his victory performance, he danced across the stage, high-fived Lionel Richie, and had the entire studio buzzing. Even judge Luke Bryan couldn’t resist joining in, hopping on stage to try and learn Jamal’s signature moves.
“How are you doing that?!” Bryan laughed, clearly impressed.
But while Jamal’s natural charisma lights up every stage he steps on, behind the scenes, he’s feeling the pressure—and staying grounded.
“I don’t really know how to feel,” Roberts admitted. “I just know that I’ve been on a show before, and I know that I did well on that show, and I do know that it can take a turn for the worse. So right now, I don’t know how to feel. I’m just playing my part.”
That humble mindset is part of what makes Jamal so beloved. He’s not here for flash—he’s here for purpose. And that purpose is rooted deeply in his community and his family.
“It makes me feel good. It makes me feel loved,” he said about the support from his hometown. “I can feel the love, and I can feel the support. I know they’ve got my back, so it makes everything better.”
A proud father of two young daughters, Harmoni and Lyrik, Jamal has carried their love with him throughout the competition. His audition went viral when the girls ran onto the stage shouting, “Daddy got the golden ticket!” Since then, Jamal has proven he’s not just a gospel talent—he’s a versatile artist who can command the stage with everything from Chris Stapleton’s “Tennessee Whiskey” to Teddy Swims’ “The Door.”
Despite his past experience on BET’s Sunday Best, where he reached the top three in 2021, Roberts is treating American Idol like a whole new playing field. He wakes up early, spends hours rehearsing with coaches and mentors, and brings his full self to every live performance.
Now, as he prepares for Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Night on April 27, the stakes are higher than ever. With only 14 contestants remaining and live fan voting determining the Top 12, every note matters.
But if there’s one thing Jamal Roberts has shown us, it’s that grace, grit, and God-given talent make for an unstoppable combination.
Whether he’s bringing the house down with a soulful ballad or warming hearts with his radiant smile, Roberts is reminding America that Idol isn’t just about the voice—it’s about the story behind it.
And Jamal Roberts is writing one of the season’s most unforgettable.
