In one of the most powerful and poignant scenes of American Idol Season 23, finalist Jamal Roberts stunned viewers with a breathtaking a cappella performance of “First Time.” The raw, unaccompanied rendition—aired as a surprise finale cut scene—left audiences and judges in awe and moved fellow contestant Jelly Roll to tears.
Roberts, celebrated throughout the season for his velvet-smooth tone and soulful delivery, stripped away all production and stood alone with nothing but his voice. Covering TEEKS’ haunting 2021 ballad, he delivered a performance so intimate and spiritual that the room seemed to hold its breath.
Jelly Roll, sitting offstage, was visibly emotional, wiping tears as the final note fell away. The moment quickly went viral, becoming one of the season’s most talked-about highlights and further proof of the emotional weight Roberts carries with every performance.
The Judges Take Notice
Roberts’ consistency and artistry had already earned him high praise from the Idol panel throughout the competition. But after “First Time,” they were especially effusive.
Carrie Underwood praised his ease and polish: “You just feel so comfortable and sound so comfortable, and it sounds so good.”
Luke Bryan quipped, “Will you teach me how to be that smooth?”
Lionel Richie called Roberts’ vocal storytelling “brilliant form.”
Later in the finale broadcast, Roberts returned to the stage for a silky-smooth rendition of The Temptations’ classic “Just My Imagination (Running Away With Me).” Once again, the performance earned a standing ovation.
Underwood marveled at how he kept “everything fresh,” Bryan dubbed him “one of the most amazing people I’ve ever seen on this show,” and Richie added simply: “You’re divinely guided.”
“Heal” Gains Traction Before the Finale
As anticipation for the finale grew, Roberts released a cover of Tom Odell’s “Heal,” a soaring, emotionally charged ballad that showcased his vocal control and deep personal connection to the music. Debuted live during the April 28 episode, the performance earned a unanimous standing ovation from the judges and resonated widely across social media platforms.
In a heartfelt message before the finale, Roberts reflected on his journey:
“Tonight is a big night. We’ve worked hard for this. We’re at the end of the road.”
He also shared a simple but powerful piece of advice: “Don’t second-guess yourself. Go with your first mind. Do your best.”
A Historic Finale: Over 26 Million Votes Cast
On Sunday night, May 18, American Idol made history once again. More than 26 million votes were cast—making it the most engaged finale in the show’s two-decade run.
Roberts stood beside fellow Southern stars John Foster of Louisiana and Breanna Nix of Texas. Following two high-stakes rounds of vocal fireworks, Breanna Nix was announced in third place, setting the stage for a dramatic final faceoff between Roberts and Foster.
A Crown for Mississippi
Then came the moment that sealed it all: Jamal Roberts was named winner of American Idol Season 23—becoming only the second Mississippian to earn the title, after Trent Harmon’s Season 15 victory.
It was a victory years in the making for the 24-year-old stay-at-home dad from Jackson, whose humble spirit and commanding voice captured the heart of a nation. More than a title, his win marked a triumph of soul, storytelling, and sincerity in an age of spectacle.
