Meridian native Jamal Roberts made history on May 18, 2025, when he was crowned the winner of American Idol after receiving a record-breaking 26 million votes, the highest in the show’s history.
Roberts, who beat out John Foster of Louisiana and Breanna Nix of Texas, has become a shining example of faith and authenticity in the music world.
What many didn’t know until now was that Jamal’s journey to American Idol success began long before the spotlight.
Gospel legend Kirk Franklin played a key role in shaping Jamal’s performance and connection with the audience. Before American Idol, Kirk coached Jamal vocally and gave him tough but valuable advice.
Watch the video below.
During a rehearsal on the gospel competition show Sunday Best, Kirk Franklin told Jamal: “We gotta stop you from singing to yourself. Your eyes are closed, you’re not engaging us. You need to sing it like it’s real—so they can feel it.” This moment was a turning point for Jamal, who learned that today’s audience wants authenticity. Kirk reminded him that if the feeling is real, the crowd will connect.
Jamal Roberts’ Win Brings Praise from Celebrities, Leaders and Hometown Fans
Jamal’s win resonated far beyond the show. Celebrities like Jennifer Hudson, Anita Baker, and Fantasia praised him on social media, while the American Idol judges Carrie Underwood, Lionel Richie, and Luke Bryan shared their congratulations publicly. Mississippi political leaders also celebrated Jamal’s victory. Governor Tate Reeves called Jamal a proud example of why Mississippi is the “Birthplace of America’s Music,” while Senator Roger Wicker and Congressman Bennie G. Thompson offered words of praise and gratitude for Jamal’s role as a community symbol.
Before the finale, Meridian held a massive homecoming parade and celebration in Jamal’s honor, drawing a crowd of 20,000—over half the town’s population. Jamal’s humble message after winning captured hearts nationwide: “God is so good. 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. This journey has been bigger than me, and I’m so grateful for every person who believed in me when I was just dream chasing.”
Today, Jamal Roberts is no longer just a contestant—he’s a voice to watch, a symbol of faith, and an artist whose journey reflects resilience, humility, and passion. With Kirk Franklin’s early guidance and a faith-filled spirit, Jamal is ready to bring his message of hope and praise to the world stage.
