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.
