MERIDIAN, Miss. — Jamal Roberts delivered a night to remember on American Idol during the beloved “Disney Night: Heroes and Villains” episode — and by the end of the show, the Meridian native had officially secured his spot in the Top 3.

Performing live on Monday night, Roberts kicked things off with a high-energy rendition of “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” a timeless classic that had the audience instantly on their feet. Channeling heart, soul, and effortless charisma, he lit up the stage with his vibrant presence and powerful vocals.

The judges were all in. Luke Bryan called the performance “dynamic and soul-stirring,” while Katy Perry praised Jamal’s ability to tell a story through song, saying, “You have the voice of a true storyteller.”

Later, Jamal switched gears and melted hearts with a moving version of “Beauty and the Beast.” Bathed in golden light and backed by a lush string arrangement, he delivered each note with emotional depth and grace. Lionel Richie summed it up perfectly: “You’ve captured the heart of the nation — that was pure magic.”

But the biggest moment came at the end of the night when host Ryan Seacrest announced that Jamal had earned a spot in the Top 3. The crowd erupted, and back in his hometown of Meridian, fans cheered with pride for their rising star.

For Jamal, this milestone is a testament to his talent, determination, and the love he pours into every performance. And for his community, it’s a celebration of one of their own shining bright on a national stage.

As he heads into the final stretch of the competition, Jamal Roberts has proven he’s not just a phenomenal vocalist — he’s an artist with heart, soul, and the power to inspire.

Even before the big stage, the bright lights, and millions of Idol fans cheering him on, John Foster had already shown he was more than just a great voice—he was a true storyteller.

Back in his hometown of Brusly, Louisiana, long before American Idol came calling, 18-year-old Foster delivered a performance that no one saw coming: a whistle-only version of George Jones’ “He Stopped Loving Her Today.” No instruments, no spotlight theatrics—just pure feeling in every note.

A Quiet Moment That Spoke Volumes
That unforgettable performance happened at a local showcase in West Baton Rouge Parish. Foster stood alone on stage, letting his whistle do the talking. It wasn’t loud or showy—but it sent chills through the room.

“It was like everything paused,” one attendee remembered. “You could feel it. That whistle went straight to your heart.”

The performance quickly became a small-town legend—one of those moments people never forget. And now, looking back, it almost feels like a preview of the artist he was becoming.

From Small Town to National Spotlight
Fast forward to now, and Foster has gone from college freshman to Top 3 finalist on American Idol Season 23. He’s wowed the judges with everything from Elvis to Disney classics, even turning “Beauty and the Beast” into a soulful country ballad. Mentored by Lin-Manuel Miranda, Foster’s performances have shown heart, depth, and an undeniable star quality.

Still, it’s that quiet sincerity—first revealed in a small room in Louisiana—that continues to define him.

A Hometown Hero Comes Home
Just this past week, Foster returned home to a hero’s welcome. From a pep rally at Brusly High (where he once stood as valedictorian) to a parade down First Street in Addis, the entire community came out in force. Thousands gathered at Bayou Plaquemine Waterfront Park to cheer him on—and many still remembered that simple whistle performance that started it all.

More Than a Singer
Foster’s strength isn’t just in his voice—it’s in how he tells a story. Whether honoring a lost friend or singing a country classic, he brings emotion that’s real and raw.

“John doesn’t just perform,” one fan wrote. “He makes you feel every word, every note.”

Ready for the Big Stage
With the American Idol finale airing Sunday, May 18 at 7 p.m. CST, Foster is in the final stretch. Whether he takes home the title or not, his journey has already struck a chord with fans everywhere.

Because while the world may just be discovering John Foster now, his hometown knew the truth from the start: he’s the real deal. And for those who witnessed that whistle song all those years ago—this moment was never a surprise. It was destiny.

American Idol finalist Jamal Roberts returned to his roots in Meridian, Mississippi, and the city showed up in full force to celebrate one of their own. From a local teacher to a national standout, Roberts’ journey lit up the streets of his hometown with pride, music, and heartfelt moments.

Thousands filled the city to cheer him on during a special homecoming event that included a festive parade, a soulful outdoor concert, and a heartfelt proclamation from city leaders. Standing on the lawn of City Hall, Roberts wowed the crowd with powerful performances that captured the depth of his voice and the love he holds for his hometown.

“This night isn’t just about me,” he told the audience. “It’s about Meridian. It’s about hope. I know God, and I believe it won’t always be like this. Things will get better.”

And for many, that message rang true. Roberts delivered more than music—he delivered encouragement. Each song was filled with emotion, reflecting a journey that’s touched countless hearts. From soaring ballads to foot-tapping anthems, he brought the soul of Mississippi to life in every note.

Juggling life as an elementary school teacher while rising to the Top 3 on American Idol, Roberts has inspired fans both near and far. His return home was a moment of pride not just for him, but for everyone who’s followed his story.

That pride reached new heights when Meridian officials declared May 14th “Jamal Roberts Day,” honoring his impact as a musician, role model, and hometown hero.

Fans like Michelle Cheatham traveled from nearby towns to join the celebration. “We’ve had watch parties for Jamal all season,” she said. “Tonight, Meridian showed him just how much he means to us.”

Yolanda Edmonds, a Meridian native, shared, “Jamal gives people hope. He proves that no matter where you start, something beautiful can grow. I’m incredibly proud of him.”

As the music faded and the crowd dispersed, the spirit of the night lingered. Jamal Roberts didn’t just return home as a finalist—he returned as a symbol of what’s possible when talent meets perseverance and a community stands behind one of its own.

@yrushing46

I had the honor and pleasure of attending the parade and concert for Jamal’s welcome home parade!! Please make sure yall vote for him Sunday!! 30 votes per person! #viral #fyi #jamalroberts #americanidol #meridian #jamal #herheart #anthonyhamilton

♬ original sound – MzRushing2011

Ella Langley isn’t afraid to get real—and her latest single, “Hell of a Man,” proves it. With fearless lyrics and a voice that hits like a storm, Langley dives into the complicated emotions that come with loving someone who’s equal parts charm and chaos.

This isn’t your typical breakup ballad. “Hell of a Man” walks the fine line between heartbreak and admiration. It’s a raw, honest look at the kind of person who drives you crazy—but who you just can’t walk away from. He’s messy, magnetic, and maddening all at once. Sound familiar? That’s why this song hits home for so many.

Langley tells the story with a mix of grit and grace, painting a picture of a relationship that’s as intense as it is flawed. And while the song might start in the ruins of romance, it doesn’t stay there—it rises into something stronger. At its core, “Hell of a Man” is about knowing your worth, even when things fall apart.

Musically, the track blends classic country with a rock edge. Think tough guitar riffs, steady drums, and an anthem-worthy chorus that demands to be played loud. Langley’s vocals are smoky and strong, full of emotion but never overdone. She sings like she’s lived every word—and you believe her.

What makes the song stand out is its honesty. Langley doesn’t sugarcoat the pain or gloss over the good times. She leans into the contradiction, showing that strength doesn’t mean never getting hurt—it means coming out stronger on the other side.

“Hell of a Man” is more than just a song about a complicated love. It’s a reminder that even when things get messy, there’s power in owning your story. It’s a song for anyone who’s been through the fire and come out fiercer.

In a genre that’s always been about storytelling, Ella Langley is carving out her own space with fearless truth-telling and a voice that doesn’t back down. If you haven’t heard “Hell of a Man” yet, turn it up and let it hit. You’ll feel seen—and maybe even a little stronger.

John Foster isn’t just singing on American Idol—he’s striking a chord that’s resonating across generations.

Often described by fans as “the voice that feels like home,” Foster has a way of blending classic country warmth with the raw honesty of today’s singer-songwriters. His rich tone has drawn comparisons to greats like Don Williams and Randy Travis, yet his down-to-earth vibe and emotional delivery speak directly to today’s listeners—whether they’re 17 or 70.

One viewer captured it perfectly:
“My mom cried, my daughter screamed, and I just sat there in awe. It’s not just the voice—it’s the heart behind it.”

It’s rare to find someone who appeals to TikTok teens and country traditionalists, but Foster walks that line with ease. Every performance feels like a story told by someone who’s lived it, and that’s what makes him such a standout this season.

“He takes you back to your first love and your first heartbreak,” said one Idol judge. “No matter how old you are, you feel it.”

His latest performance only reinforced what fans already know—John Foster isn’t just a contestant, he’s the real deal. As the finale draws near, one thing’s for sure: whether he takes the title or not, his voice and spirit are here to stay.

@bayougrl

#johnfostermusic @John Foster He’s at it again folks. Yall wanted more, so here it is. #lookingforloveinallthewrongplaces #countrytiktok #fyp #southlouisiana #johnnylee

♬ original sound – Brandy

LAS VEGAS — Among the glitz and glam of the 60th Academy of Country Music Awards, a lighthearted backstage moment may have stolen the show—or at least sparked a lot of laughs (and maybe a few swoons). The mystery behind Riley Green’s now-iconic mustache? It all started with a dare… from none other than Ella Langley.

Riley Green, known for hits like “I Wish Grandpas Never Died” and his all-American, clean-cut charm, has been rocking a noticeable new look lately. The mustache has divided fans—some love it, some are still adjusting—but it turns out this facial hair moment wasn’t part of a style makeover. It was just a challenge from a friend.

“I grew it because Ella Langley said I wouldn’t,” Green shared with a grin during an interview with Country Now. “So I had to.”

Langley, who’s making waves with her Southern grit and breakout hit “Country Boy’s Dream Girl,” laughed when asked about the dare on the ACM red carpet. “Yep, that was me,” she admitted. “Didn’t think he’d actually keep it, but here we are.”

The two have been touring together on Green’s Ain’t My Last Rodeo Tour, and fans have loved watching their off-stage banter unfold. What started as a playful backstage joke has now taken on a life of its own—with memes, TikToks, and even fan-made merch celebrating the ‘stache.

And while the mustache may have started as a gag, Green’s learned to embrace it.

“I’ve actually gotten kind of used to it,” he said. “Feels like a throwback to old-school country—very ‘70s. Plus, it gives people something to talk about at the shows.”

Langley isn’t letting him forget it anytime soon. “I might’ve created a monster,” she joked. “But hey, it’s a good-looking monster.”

Fans have jumped in on the fun, flooding social media with posts asking whether Green should keep it or shave it. (Spoiler: Team Mustache seems to be winning.)

Whether it’s a temporary phase or his new signature style, the mustache moment has officially become part of Green’s story—and Langley’s unexpected legacy. No one could’ve predicted that a backstage dare would turn into a fan-favorite feature, but here we are.

One thing’s for sure: if Ella Langley ever dares Riley Green to do anything else, we’ll all be paying attention.

Addis, Louisiana is beaming with pride—and for good reason. Their very own John Foster, the 18-year-old country singer with a heart of gold, is returning home after earning a spot in the Top 3 on American Idol. Before he takes the national stage one last time in Sunday’s finale, his hometown is pulling out all the stops to celebrate his incredible journey.

Set for Wednesday, May 14, John’s homecoming will include a festive parade through Addis and a special concert along the Plaquemine waterfront. Foster, a freshman at LSU and former valedictorian of Brusly High School, has become a local legend overnight—and his community is determined to give him a celebration that matches the heart and grit he’s shown on stage.

Excitement is everywhere in West Baton Rouge Parish. Crews are decorating First Street, signs cheering John are popping up all over town, and students at Brusly High are proudly wearing school colors in his honor. Plaquemine Mayor JB Barker says the energy is “buzzing all across south Louisiana,” and the crowd is expected to be more than 5,000 strong.

The fun kicks off at 5 p.m. as John rides through town waving from a float. Then, in a true Louisiana twist, he’ll hop on a boat and cruise down Bayou Plaquemine to meet fans for a free live concert starting at 7:30 p.m. at Foundry Street. He’s set to perform six songs—one more chance for fans to see him shine before he returns to Hollywood. (Heads up: there’ll be security checks and a clear bag policy in place.)

From playing small shows at local spots like Side Porch Daiquiris to singing his heart out on American Idol, John’s rise has been nothing short of inspiring. Whether it was a touching tribute to his late friend Maggie Dunn or a sweet dedication of George Strait’s “I Cross My Heart” to his girlfriend, he’s wowed both fans and judges with his sincerity and charm. Judge Carrie Underwood even called him a “diamond in the rough” with serious star potential.

Now, John is just one performance away from possibly becoming Louisiana’s next Idol winner—following in the footsteps of Laine Hardy, who took the crown in 2019. He’ll go head-to-head with fellow finalists Breanna Nix and Jamal Roberts during the live finale on Sunday, May 18.

In a message to fans, John recently shared: “Louisiana, I’m coming home for you!” And with a celebration this big, it’s clear his home couldn’t be prouder. No matter what happens in the finale, John Foster’s already a hometown hero—and his story is just getting started.

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Jamal Roberts is a true example of what it means to never give up. The Mississippi native and proud father of two daughters has become a standout star on Season 23 of American Idol, but his road to this moment wasn’t easy. After being turned away twice in previous seasons, Jamal came back for a third try — and now he’s showing the world that persistence really does pay off.

On Sunday, May 11, Jamal delivered one of his most powerful performances yet, singing “Go the Distance” from Disney’s Hercules during the show’s beloved Disney Night. Backed by a sweeping orchestra, he poured his heart into the song, giving it fresh meaning with his rich vocals and emotional delivery. Fans and judges were all in agreement: this was a standout moment.

“He’s a lyrics guy, and it shows,” one viewer posted on social media. “You can feel every word he sings. It’s real.”

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A post shared by Jamal Roberts (@officialjamalroberts)

Before hitting the stage, Jamal got to experience a little Disney magic at Disneyland Resort with his daughters — a dream come true for the P.E. teacher who often speaks about how much his family means to him. Their smiles lit up his social media, but once the lights dimmed and the music began, Jamal was laser-focused. Eyes closed, voice full of purpose, he sang for more than just a win — he sang for every kid with a big dream.

Ahead of the episode, Jamal opened up on Instagram about how life-changing this journey has been. “I’ve grown so much as an artist, both physically and mentally!!” he wrote. “Thank you, America, for taking a chance on me.”

Back in his hometown of Meridian, Mississippi, Jamal’s rise is more than just exciting — it’s deeply meaningful. During his audition, he talked about how his community has faced struggles, including violence and fear. But through music, he hopes to be a light in the darkness. “Some days, you don’t even want to come outside,” he said. “But I want to be someone who brings hope.”

And with performances like “Go the Distance,” he’s doing just that — not only chasing his own dream, but inspiring others to believe in theirs too.

As American Idol heads into its final week, with the grand finale airing Sunday, May 18 on ABC, Jamal Roberts remains a top contender. But no matter the outcome, his journey already feels like a win — for him, for his daughters, and for everyone who’s ever dared to try again.

Downtown Meridian was bursting with pride and excitement on Wednesday, May 14, as more than 20,000 fans gathered to welcome home their hometown star, Jamal Roberts. Now a Top 3 finalist on American Idol, Roberts returned to Mississippi for a hero’s celebration filled with music, emotion, and pure joy.

A Day to Remember
The festivities kicked off at 5:30 p.m. with a spirited parade that made its way from the Lauderdale County Courthouse to City Hall. Fans lined the streets waving signs, snapping pictures, and shouting their support. Roberts, all smiles, waved from his car, clearly moved by the overwhelming love from his community.

Later that evening, at 7:15 p.m., Roberts took the stage on the City Hall lawn for a free concert that could only be described as electric. His powerful vocals and heartfelt delivery had the crowd on their feet, and more than one fan was heard saying, “He’s not just a finalist—he’s already a star.”

Back to Where It All Started
Before the big show, Roberts made a surprise visit to Crestwood Elementary School—his old stomping grounds. What began as a fifth-grade vs. teachers kickball game turned into a heartwarming reunion. Students erupted with excitement as Jamal walked onto the field, hugging teachers and chatting with kids who’ve been voting for him week after week.

“It’s been amazing watching their reactions,” said teacher Deyantah Curry. “They’re so proud of him. And honestly, so are we.”

For Roberts, it was a full-circle moment. Reflecting on his early music journey, including a tough break on BET’s Sunday Best during the pandemic, he said, “Getting cut back then was hard, but it was a blessing. If that hadn’t happened, I wouldn’t be here now. This is where I’m supposed to be.”

Local Support and National Praise
Meridian went all out for its rising star. The city council set aside $20,000 to help make the event unforgettable, complete with food trucks, community booths, and crowd control for the massive turnout.

Even American Idol judge Carrie Underwood, who previously drew criticism for her lukewarm comments, changed her tune after Roberts’ moving rendition of “Rainbow Connection.”

“You’re a diamond in the rough,” she told him. “If you’re not careful, you just might win this whole thing.”

The Journey Isn’t Over
As Jamal Roberts heads into the American Idol finale on Sunday, May 18, his hometown is cheering him on louder than ever. From his humble beginnings in Meridian to the national spotlight, Roberts is proving that dreams really do come true—and he’s just getting started.

On May 12, 2025, all eyes were on Denton when American Idol host Ryan Seacrest announced that local favorite Breanna Nix had earned a spot in the Top 3. With over 19 million votes behind her, the 25-year-old stay-at-home mom — who once sang lullabies to her baby boy — now sings for an entire nation. And as she heads into the finale, she’s taking a heartfelt detour back home.

Denton’s Star Gets a Hometown Welcome

Breanna’s return on May 14 will be anything but quiet. Denton is pulling out all the stops with a celebration as big as Texas itself. The party kicks off at 4:30 p.m. with a vibrant parade circling the historic Downtown Denton Square. Expect floats, music, hand-painted signs, and an overwhelming wave of local pride — all to honor the girl who took her voice from Denton to the national stage.

Then, at 7 p.m., the heart of downtown will transform into a concert venue as Breanna performs a free show outside the Discover Denton Visitor Center. Families can bring lawn chairs and blankets, enjoy bites from local food trucks, and sing along as the hometown hero delivers a special set under the open sky. The best part? The concert will be featured in the American Idol finale on May 18 — so Denton’s love will be on full display across the country.

Businesses Join in the Celebration

Local businesses are adding their own flavor to the festivities, showing support with fun, creative tributes to Breanna:

Beth Marie’s Ice Cream is debuting a limited-time “Breanna Nix” flavor.

The Cookie Crave is baking up custom cookies and offering 25% off treats.

East Side & LSA Burger are shaking up special cocktails in Breanna’s name.

Studio LaSalle and Captiva Salon have Idol-themed beauty specials.

Norman Roscoe is live-printing “VOTE FOR BREANNA” shirts during the parade.

From ice cream scoops to salon chairs, Denton is showing love in every corner.

More Than a Contest — It’s a Community Moment

For Denton, this isn’t just about one singer making it big — it’s about watching one of their own chase a dream and soar. Breanna’s journey has been full of grace, grit, and heart, and her story is inspiring everyone around her. Whether she takes home the American Idol title or not, she’s already won the hearts of her town — and that’s something worth celebrating.

So, mark your calendar, grab your Breanna T-shirt, and come join the fun. Denton is ready to give their star the welcome she deserves — and the whole country is about to see just how proud this town truly is.