‘American Idol’ Winner Jamal Roberts Nabs His First-Ever No. 1 Song

Not even two weeks have passed since Jamal Roberts heard Ryan Seacrest reveal he was the next American Idol. Having powered through each phase of the competition, he eventually found himself standing alongside John Foster in the Final 2. A surreal moment for Roberts, apparently, he continued to process the massive victory while wanting to capitalize on his newfound fame. And showing that his talents went far beyond American Idol, he recently celebrated another victory as he snagged the No. 1 spot on Hot Gospel Songs Chart thanks to his cover of “Heal.” 

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Although the song was released by Tom Odell over a decade ago, the song saw a resurgence thanks to Roberts. During his time on American Idol, Roberts decided to take the stage and shine a light on his own faith. Performing “Heal” in front of millions of viewers, the performance captured more than votes. Not able to get enough, fans of Roberts helped the singer gain his first No. 1 hit on the Hot Gospel Songs chart. 

[RELATED: ‘American Idol’ Jamal Roberts Returns to Mississippi School “Bus Duty” After Winning Season 23]

Jamal Roberts Still Waiting On ‘American Idol’ To Write The Check

Watching his career take off, Roberts apparently was still waiting on the $250,000 cash prize offered by American Idol. He didn’t even know where it was. “No, I haven’t received it. Don’t know where it is. I’m interested in knowing.” Knowing that a show like American Idol was good for the money, the singer didn’t seem to mind. He insisted that when the check cleared, he was going to simply “Put it in the bank.” 

Not wanting to splurge on elaborate gifts, Roberts still needed time to process the victory. Even now, it seemed like a dream. “I say it to myself every day, ‘Did I just, you know, win American Idol?’ I asked myself that. I’m like, ‘Did I actually win American Idol?’ It feels like it didn’t happen. It’s always [been] a dream and now it’s a reality. I’m like, ‘Do I keep dreaming?’ I’m definitely excited that America chose me.”

While Roberts was ready to get to work on his debut album, he always considered himself a winner given the love his daughters constantly showered him with. No matter if he won or lost, he declared, “They have my whole heart.” 

(Photo by Stewart Cook/Disney via Getty Images)