With a voice that captured America’s heart on American Idol, Jamal Roberts returned to his Alabama roots on June 14, headlining the Bee More Summer Festival with a soul-stirring performance that transformed a festive Saturday into a sacred musical experience.
Just weeks after winning Season 23 of American Idol, the 27-year-old former gym teacher took the stage at Boxcar Willie in Atmore’s Arts & Entertainment District, performing to a packed crowd that witnessed not just a concert—but a testimony.
“Made a Way” Moves the Masses
Roberts’ rendition of Travis Greene’s “Made a Way” was the emotional high point of the night. As he poured every ounce of spirit and conviction into the gospel anthem, the audience grew silent—some with hands raised, others moved to tears.
Then, a wave of applause erupted. For a moment, the Bee More Summer Festival felt more like a revival than a street fair.
The setting sun behind him, Roberts commanded the stage not as a contestant, but as a fully realized artist. The performance felt personal, raw, and reverent—his voice a vessel of praise that reached every corner of the town square.
A Homegrown Star’s Triumphant Return
While the festival offered family-friendly fun from foam pits to face painting, for many, the true draw was watching one of their own return home in glory. Roberts, once just another face in the crowd, now stood as a symbol of what perseverance, faith, and talent can achieve.
Hosted by the City of Atmore and Main Street Atmore, the Bee More Summer Festival has become known for spotlighting rising stars. Last year, it was Idol runner-up Will Moseley. This year, the honor belonged to Roberts—and he delivered a show that won’t soon be forgotten.
“This One’s for the People Who Believed in Me”
Before wrapping up his set, Roberts took a moment to address the crowd.
“This right here,” he said, motioning to the cheering audience, “this is for the ones who believed in me before anyone else did. For my babies. For my hometown. I love y’all.”
It was a full-circle moment for the Alabama native—now a national figure—who still carries the heart of a small-town dreamer.
Addressing the Carrie Underwood Rumors
Of course, fame comes with its share of scrutiny, and Roberts hasn’t been immune. Following his Idol win, fans speculated about a lack of support from judge Carrie Underwood, particularly during the finale where some noted her visibly reserved reaction.
Speaking at BET’s 45th Anniversary dinner, Roberts addressed the chatter with grace and honesty.
“Carrie is a country singer and she likes country music,” he said. “She had her picks, and she stuck with it. And that’s okay.”
Still, he added with a smile: “But I feel like the better person won.”
Despite the rumors, Underwood publicly congratulated Roberts on Instagram, writing: “I’m so proud of @officialjamalroberts and all he has accomplished this season… He’s going to do great things!”
Breaking Genre Boundaries—and Records
Roberts’ victory over country finalists John Foster and Breanna Nix signaled more than a personal win—it marked a shift in American Idol’s legacy. His soul-infused, gospel-rooted artistry resonated with a broad audience and proved that heartfelt performance transcends genre labels.
With his debut single “Heal” already topping charts and a debut album on the way, Roberts shows no signs of slowing down. His tour calendar is booked solid through 2027, and his fanbase continues to grow—drawn not just to his voice, but to his story.
More Than an Idol—A Messenger
Jamal Roberts has made it clear: he’s not just here to entertain. He’s here to inspire.
Whether it’s through powerful performances like “Made a Way” or heartfelt moments on stage with his daughters, Roberts is redefining what it means to be an Idol winner—anchoring every note in purpose, faith, and authenticity.
And in Atmore, Alabama, on a summer night filled with foam machines and funnel cakes, one man’s music lifted a whole community just a little bit higher.
