Jamal Roberts continues to prove that he’s not just a singer—he’s a storyteller, a leader, and a vessel for something bigger than himself. During Sunday night’s Top 24 round of American Idol Season 23, he delivered a performance that wasn’t just heard—it was felt.
Set against the lush backdrop of Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii, Roberts chose to perform Jelly Roll’s emotionally charged song “Liar,” and in doing so, turned the stage into a sanctuary. With Ashanti and Jelly Roll serving as mentors, Jamal didn’t just sing—he laid his soul bare. From the moment he opened his mouth, there was no question: this wasn’t a performance; it was a testimony.
Before stepping into the spotlight, Jamal shared with Jelly Roll and Ashanti his mission:
“I want to show the young fellas that you ain’t gotta have a gun. You ain’t got to sell drugs … Everybody can chase their dream and be a better person.”
That conviction rang through every word of “Liar”—a track Jelly Roll co-wrote to battle the inner demons of addiction, shame, and self-doubt. Jamal turned the song into something even deeper: a message of resilience, redemption, and purpose.
Jelly Roll, overwhelmed by the rehearsal alone, was visibly emotional:
“You brought a tear to me, Jamal. That wasn’t a performance. You were testifying. I feel the pain in your voice. You can’t teach that. I am your champion.”
And when the live performance aired, the reaction was electric.
- Lionel Richie, practically preaching from the judges’ table, told him: “If you had passed the collection plate, I would have given all the money.”
- Carrie Underwood called it “a possession.”
- And Luke Bryan nailed it: “You sing like it might be the last time you ever sing. That’s how you have to approach this business.”
Jamal’s ability to channel his truth into a performance, especially with a song as soul-baring as “Liar,” is what sets him apart. In a season packed with talent, he’s emerging as a heart-forward force, a symbol of perseverance and transformation. It’s not just about votes or viral moments for Jamal Roberts—it’s about impact. And right now, he’s making it.
