The season 23 finale of ‘American Idol’ crowned Jamal Roberts, a 27-year-old physical education teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, as this season’s winner Sunday night. Roberts, who has gospel roots and grew up singing in church, won America’s vote following his performance of original single “Heal,” a cover of a Tom Odell track released through Idol, and a duet with Jelly Roll.
“I’m still trying to process this… God is so good,” wrote Roberts in an Instagram post Sunday.
“From my first step on that stage to this unbelievable moment, I never dreamed a kid from my hometown would one day be called American Idol,” he added. “This journey has been bigger than me, and I’m so grateful for every person who believed in me when I was just chasing a dream.”
As a father of three daughters, Roberts hopes that they would recognize that” with faith, hard work, and heart, anything is possible. To my city, my family, and everyone out there grinding for something greater, this is our victory.”
Roberts won a $250,000 cash prize and a recording contract with Hollywood Records/19 Recordings. He previously auditioned for “Idol” as a teenager but was informed he needed more training, The…
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