Celebrity
From Underdog To Finalist: Jamal Roberts Is One Step From The Idol Crown
Fans across are waiting impatiently for the May 18 airing of the American Idol Season 23 finale. Millions of people have been enthralled by the last three competitors: Breanna Nix, John Foster, and Jamal Roberts. However, many people are cheering for Jamal to win because of his inspirational path from quiet perseverance to the spotlight.
A Voice That Almost Went Unheard
Jamal Roberts, 27, is a native of Mississippi and is accustomed to both hard labour and disappointment. He is a father of three and a physical education teacher. He has been fostering his love of music for years, drawing inspiration from soul recordings and church seats.
Jamal immediately won over judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood with a heartfelt performance of Rick James’ “Mary Jane” on his first audition this season, winning him a golden ticket and a chance to become famous.
However, fans might not be aware that this was not even Jamal’s second attempt at American Idol.
Two “No’s” Before One Big “Yes”
Jamal disclosed that he has previously tried out for American Idol twice in an open interview with Billboard.
He was informed he needed more vocal training and was too young, so his initial audition was cut short.
He didn’t have enough materials ready and arrived unprepared the second time.
“I didn’t get defeated,” Jamal said. “I never gave up. I took the no. I’ve always been able to take constructive criticism and use it for my gain and try again. This has always been me.”
Every time, Jamal came back stronger and more motivated than when others might have left.
Raised in Faith, Fueled by Passion
Meridian, Mississippi, where Jamal’s musical career started, is where his roots are firmly established.
“I started singing at the age of two,” he shared. “My grandparents found out I could sing, and I started singing in church. I was in the choir, I played drums, I ushered — if the church doors were open, I was there.”
His voice—and his tenacity—were rooted in music and faith, with a deacon on one side and a bishop grandfather on the other.
Balancing Dreams and Fatherhood
Jamal not only developed as a vocalist but also as a man in the years in between auditions. Just before he reached the Top 7 this season, he became the father of three children, one of which was a baby.
And he was pursuing his aspirations long before Idol. He continued to develop his craft on his own terms in 2020 by releasing a song on his own.
A Message of Gratitude and Hope
Jamal thanked those who have helped him get thus far on Instagram after securing his spot in the Top 3:
“THANK YOU GOD!! Thank you, America!! Thank you, Meridian Ⓜ️! Thank you, American Idol”!
Jamal’s narrative, from gospel halls to national television, is one of grace, growth, and tenacity. Even though he has previously been told “no,” every step has brought him to this point, where he is just one performance away from winning the title of next American Idol.
Don’t Miss the Finale
See if Jamal Roberts wins the title and solidifies his place in music history by tuning into ABC’s American Idol Season 23 Grand Finale on Sunday, May 18 at 8 PM ET.
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