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American Idol has long proven it could discover the next big thing in music. From winners like Kelly Clarkson and Carrie Underwood to standout finalists like Jennifer Hudson and Adam Lambert, the show’s track record speaks for itself.
Now, Season 23 winner Jamal Roberts is poised to become R&B’s next breakout sensation, and his packed schedule is already reflecting that rising star power. From a No. 1 song on iTunes to a tour with two music superstars, the Meridian, Mississippi native’s career is undeniably on an upward trajectory.
American Idol Season 23 Winner Jamal Roberts Is Making Major Career Moves
On May 18th, after 26 million votes were cast, American Idol crowned its Season 23 winner: 27-year-old Jamal Roberts from Mississippi. He triumphed over John Foster of Addis, Louisiana, who finished as runner-up, and Breanna Nix from Denton, Texas, who placed third.
As the newest Idol winner, Jamal received an amazing prize that included a $250,000 cash prize and a recording contract, putting him on the fast track to the studio to begin work on his debut album. Ever since his win, Jamal has hit the ground running, wasting no time in turning his win into momentum.
During the Idol finale, fans got to hear Jamal sing what would be his debut single: a cover of Tom O’Dell’s “Heal,” which Jamal also put his own spin on. The song, which will certainly be on his first album, immediately went No. 1 on iTunes.
In June, Jamal got to take the stage at the 2025 BET Awards, where he sang alongside gospel’s biggest acts, like Kirk Franklin, Tamar Braxton and Muni Long. Jamal has shown his love and appreciation for all music genres during his Idol run.
In fact, Jamal had previously competed on BET’s Sunday Best, which looks for next best act in gospel music. Jamal appeared in the tenth season and was a finalist!
On Instagram, Jamal has teased fans that he is in the recording studio in Nashville, and crafting music for his debut album. “Great time in the studio with these talented guys‼️Cooking up something great 💪🏾,” he captioned a photo alongside music executives and other performers. He also tagged songwriter Christian Stalnecker, who has created music for big acts like T-Pain, Kane Brown, and Rick Ross. That definitely means Jamal’s album is going to be a hit.
Jamal Is An Opening Act For Brandy And Monica’s “The Boy Is Mine” Tour
In even more exciting news, Jamal will be one of the headliners for music superstars Brandy and Monica’s “The Boy is Mine” Tour. The name of the tour is in reference to their 1998 hit single, “The Boy is Mine,” which spent 13 consecutive weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard charts.
It’s a huge moment for Jamal to be part of this nationwide tour since it will also give him plenty of exposure for those who didn’t watch him on Idol. Also headlining on the tour will be Destiny’s Child singer Kelly Rowland and Muni Long. Jamal shared the exciting news on Instagram, with a poster showcasing the dates of the tour, which will begin in October and run through December.
He captioned the image, “The things God is doing in my life 🥺 Hmmmmm and new music is on the way 🔥🔥🔥 Sit tight 🤞🏾 oh and I love yall ❤️💪🏾.”
Jamal Opened Up About His Mental Health Following His Idol Win
Jamal has been a busy man since his American Idol win. From heading straight into the recording studio to work on his debut album to jumping back on stage, and now a U.S. tour in the next few months, it’s clear his life has completely transformed.
Of course, that kind of whirlwind schedule can take its toll, especially for someone just starting out in the music industry. That’s why fans were glad to see Jamal take a moment to check in and share an update on his mental state following his huge win.
According to Entertainment Now, Jamal took to Instagram Stories on June 25th, to share how he was doing. He didn’t shy away about how he was really feeling, telling his fans that it was “overwhelming.”
“Check in: How are you feeling mentally? I’ll start it off. Sometimes it gets overwhelming. No judgment, just love. “#nojudgementjustlove”
Jamal’s fans have been extremely supportive of him and his newfound career in music. On the social media platform, several of his fans wished him well and to remember to “take deep breathes.”
- “Take deep breaths. Don’t try to please everyone and take care of yourself first so that you can be at your best for others. Auntie is a therapist so she understands life can get overwhelming but you have to do what’s best for you no matter if feelings get hurt,” a comment read.
- “So proud of you and happy for you. You already know THE MAN, so keep on walking in His will and His way. Lean on Him when you need that rest. 🙌🏾🤗,” another person wrote.
In another Instagram post, Jamal appeared to hint at just how much his life has changed, this time through what seemed to be lyrics from a new song. The lines suggest a stark contrast between his current fast-paced reality and the slower, quieter life he once knew back in Mississippi.
“🎵 Traded in the lazy days I used to lay by the river. Oh, how I miss it. Out here, smiling like this is the life, but deep inside, I’m just pretending. No, that ain’t living. I’m missing you in Mississippi, and it don’t feel the same without you with me. 😏💪🏾✍🏿,” his captioned read.
Fans offered Jamal plenty of words of encouragement. “Keep your feet on the ground and always keep someone around you that will always be truthful with you, at all costs. Enjoy your new journey. You have an incredible gift, share that gift with the world 🌎.”
While fans await Jamal’s first album, they can continue to listen to his debut single, “Heal,” and, of course, rewatch all of his American Idol performances on Hulu.
Fans can also now purchase tickets to the Brandy & Monica “The Boy is Mine” Tour, which will take place in 24 cities, kicking off in Cincinnati, Ohio, on October 16th.
For more American Idol coverage, visit our Reality TV Hub.
