American Idol Shocker: Jamal Roberts Brings Judges to Tears Right After Becoming a Dad!

On May 5, 2025, during the highly anticipated “Judges’ Song Contest” episode of American Idol Season 23, Jamal Roberts took the stage—and left the nation speechless. His soul-stirring performance of Fantasia Barrino’s “I Believe” wasn’t just powerful. It was personal.

A Father’s Promise, Delivered in Song

What fans didn’t know—until he revealed it that night—is that Jamal became a father earlier that very day. His baby girl, Gianna Grace Roberts, had just been born. He wasn’t at the hospital. Instead, he stood under the spotlight, pouring every ounce of love, sacrifice, and emotion into a song that now carried a new meaning: a promise to his daughter that he will always be there for her.

Choosing between Fantasia’s “I Believe,” Stevie Wonder’s “Lately,” and Bruno Mars’ “Grenade,” Jamal followed his heart. “I Believe”—a track many call overly sentimental—became something extraordinary in his hands. One fan put it best: “That man is a male Fantasia with a splash of James Brown. Crown him already.”

The Judges Were Floored

Lionel Richie, who secretly selected the song for Jamal, confessed, “You are an emotional being. It was the perfect choice. You had me crying.” Carrie Underwood admitted she had chosen “Lately” but praised Lionel’s pick: “You made it magical.” Luke Bryan added, “You gave us a performance that stirred something real. You have to sing Stevie next.”

As Jamal ended the performance, tears in his eyes, the audience rose to their feet. It wasn’t just a performance—it was a moment.

A Story Bigger Than the Show

At 27, Roberts is more than a contestant—he’s a physical education teacher from Meridian, Mississippi, a devoted dad to daughters Harmoni and Lyrik, and now Gianna. His journey is rooted in purpose. He’s here not just for stardom, but to inspire his students, his community, and his daughters—to show that dreams can rise from anywhere.

Week after week, he’s delivered unforgettable performances—from Jelly Roll’s “Liar” to now “I Believe”—each time blending vocal power with raw emotion. And with this latest performance, he’s not just in the Top 7—he’s on a path to win it all.

🎥 Watch the performance below and share this unforgettable moment with someone who believes in the power of music—and love.