Jamal Roberts Discusses His American Idol Victory, Duet with Jelly Roll, and Future Aspirations
American Idol contestant Jamal Roberts is still trying to grasp the reality of his victory in season 23.
“Every day, I look in the mirror and think, ‘Did I really win American Idol?’” Roberts, 27, expressed exclusively to Us Weekly just a week after emerging victorious. “This has always been a dream, and now it’s actually happening.”
In the season 23 finale, which aired on Sunday, May 18, Roberts competed against Breanna Nix and John Foster, ultimately claiming the title after several performances, including a duet with Jelly Roll.
Following his momentous win, Roberts traveled from Los Angeles to New York City for a spot on Good Morning America but quickly returned to his life as a father in Meridian, Mississippi. (He has three young daughters: Harmoni, Lyrik, and Gianna.)
“I was eager to get home, slip into bed, and be with my kids,” he shared with Us. “At that moment, all I wanted was to embrace my role as a dad.”
Keep scrolling for key insights from Us Weekly’s interview with the American Idol champion, Roberts:
How His Kids Reacted
Roberts relayed to Us that his daughters are aware of his win, even if they don’t fully grasp its significance.
“They just keep asking, ‘Daddy win?’ to which I respond, ‘Yes, daddy won, sweetheart.’ They don’t really understand what it all means,” he admitted. “They only knew I was away for a while and that I won.”
Working With Jelly Roll
Roberts fondly recalled his performances of “Liar” and “Unpretty” with the “genuine and candid” Jelly Roll during the American Idol finale.
“He always encouraged us to embrace our true selves and to create music that resonates,” Roberts explained. “We were inspired to make feel-good music.”
American Idol has paved the way for numerous reality competition shows, enabling everyday individuals to achieve their dreams of becoming music stars. The show debuted in 2002 on Fox, featuring a star-studded judging panel that included Simon Cowell, Paula Abdul, and Randy Jackson. The inaugural season introduced Kelly Clarkson, who would emerge as the series’ first breakout star. And there’s plenty more to explore.
Getting Some Major Advice
Fellow American Idol winner Fantasia Barrino also shared some wisdom with Roberts.
The singer revealed to Us that the season 3 champion urged him to “stay true to myself” during this whirlwind experience. Roberts also expressed his desire to collaborate with Fantasia if the chance arises.
His Career Goals
Roberts aims to kickstart his music journey in the soul and gospel genres, while also exploring other possibilities.
“I still believe I can explore any genre. I don’t want to limit myself at this point, if you follow,” Roberts clarified. “I want to experience it all.”
Cashing That Prize Money
Although the singer has not yet received his American Idol prize money, he has big plans for when it arrives.
“I’m not sure where it is. I’m curious to find out,” he joked regarding the $250,000 cash prize. Roberts mentioned that he has no intention of indulging in “big splurges.” “I plan to bank it,” he stated.
