Jamal Roberts, the soulful star from Mississippi, continues to captivate audiences on American Idol Season 23 with his unforgettable performances. During a night filled with powerful vocals, Roberts’ rendition of “Baby Hold On to Me” stood out, leaving an emotional mark on both fans and judges. His rich, soulful voice shines through every note, making it clear that his talent goes far beyond the stage.
But it wasn’t just his incredible singing that made the night memorable. Jamal shared a deeply personal moment with viewers, revealing that he had just welcomed his third child earlier that day. Fueled by the emotions of this life-changing event, he went on to perform an equally moving rendition of “I Believe,” a song chosen for him by Lionel Richie during the annual “Judge’s Song Contest.”
“Your execution of that song—you had me crying. You had everyone in this room crying,” Lionel Richie said, clearly moved by the performance. Luke Bryan praised Roberts for his ability to combine heart, mind, and voice in such a powerful way, calling it a rare gift.
Jamal’s authenticity and emotional storytelling have won him more than just votes—they’ve earned him a loyal following that relates to his journey as a father, artist, and man of faith. With over a million votes in his favor, Jamal has made it to the Top 7, and his journey is far from over.
Be sure to catch him during the highly anticipated Double Disney Night on May 11 and 12, with the Season 23 finale set for May 18. If his past performances are any indication, Jamal isn’t just competing for a title—he’s building a legacy.