Without giving too much away, it’s clear that Jamal isn’t just talking about concerts — he’s getting at something deeper. There’s emotion in his expression, fire in his tone, and a kind of reflection that only comes from someone who’s truly lived those late nights, bright lights, and unforgettable moments. Whatever he says, it’s hitting home for a lot of people.
Reactions have been pouring in. Fans are sharing the video with captions like “goosebumps” and “this hit me harder than I expected.” It’s not just what Jamal says — it’s how he says it. You feel it. Whether you’ve been to ten concerts or none, there’s something universal in the way he tells the story.
New “American Idol” winner Jamal Roberts is scooping up honors and preparing to head out on tour with Brandy and Monica, including an Indy stop in October.
One honor he’s passing on, though, is recognition from a Mississippi town, saying there have been threatening messages from those unhappy with him being honored there.
‘Idol’ winner declined key to Mississippi city honor, citing threats
The Meridian, Mississippi, native won Season 23 of “American Idol” in May.
Ahead of several concerts scheduled across his home state, the singer declined acceptance of a key to the city from Laurel, Mississippi, revealing there had been negative comments and threats, including people saying they would bring guns to an August concert at which he is performing.
He made the revelation after a local concert promoter posted on social media that Laurel Mayor Johnny Magee had given him permission to give the “American Idol” champ a key to the city on Aug. 2 at the Noir & Blanc concert Roberts was headlining.
“I did not ask for a key to the city,” Roberts said in a Facebook Live.
Roberts said some were angry because he doesn’t live in the town and they had cited others who they say live in the area and deserve the honor.
“Y’all should get it and give it to them, somebody that’s deserving, I guess. … You know, been working in the community for years. But I don’t want it,” he said on Facebook.
Roberts politely declined and thanked the mayor, adding: “But, respectfully, keep it.”
The singer still plans to perform at the upcoming event.
About Laurel, Mississippi
The city has a population of about 16,900 and is between Hattiesburg and Meridian. It’s known for its history, architecture and Southern charm. Ben and Erin Napier made the town a national name with their show “Home Town.”
‘American Idol’ Jamal Roberts honored with key to the city in Alabama
Laurel’s overture to Roberts followed the recent presentation of a key to the city to the singer and his children by Atmore, Alabama, at a June show there.
Roberts said the town “made us feel like we were at home.”
“Thank y’all for loving on my babies and accepting me just the way I am,” he wrote on Facebook on June 14.
Who is ‘American Idol’ Jamal Roberts?
Roberts was a physical education teacher at Crestwood Elementary School in Mississippi before appearing on “American Idol.”
A dad to three daughters – Harmoni, Lyrik and newborn Gianna – he’s the first Black man to win the singing competition since Ruben Studdard took the Season 2 title in 2003.
The second winner from Mississippi, Roberts tried out for the show twice before coming back and winning it all.
Ultimately, he won a golden ticket this year singing Rick James’ “Mary Jane” during the audition rounds.
