Meridian native Jamal Roberts returned to the “American Idol” stage on Monday night, almost exactly a year after he won the hit singing competition.
Roberts was invited to perform during the penultimate episode of season 24. Wearing a red velvet suit and sporting a new haircut, he showed off his latest single, “Perfect for Me” – and viewers who tuned in to his season 23 journey loved every verse of it.
“He’s a natural born singer, performer,” one social media user wrote with a heart emoji attached.
“You are a phenomenal music artist/singer/performer with a beautiful voice and have the talent of music legends!!!” another wrote, adding that Roberts’ new single is “a masterpiece.”
Social media commenters even pulled out the past to compare Roberts to some greats. Comparisons included David Ruffin, Bobby Womack, Marvin Gaye, Johnnie Taylor, and Sam Cooke.
Since “Idol,” Roberts has charted a Billboard No. 1, been nominated for a Grammy, and toured with Brandy & Monica.
As for Monday’s episode itself, the field was cut from five to three. In the first show without Moss Point native Daniel Stallworth – who made it to the Top 7 but was cut a week ago – those who went home were Chris Tungseth and Braden Rumfelt.
Hannah Harper, Jordan McCullough, and Keyla Richardson will vie for the title of “American Idol” during a three-hour season finale on Monday, May 11. The show will air on ABC at 7 p.m. CT and include a stacked lineup of guest acts including Alicia Keys, Nelly, Mötley Crüe, Jason Mraz, Brad Paisley, Shinedown, En Vogue, Gin Blossoms, Lee Ann Womack, Clay Aiken, Tori Kelly, Blues Traveler, and Cameron Whitcomb.
