American Idol’s Jamal Roberts just stole Jelly Roll’s song — and the show

Jamal Roberts didn’t just sing Jelly Roll’s Liar on American Idol—he owned it.

During Sunday night’s episode of American Idol, the Mississippi native hit the stage at Disney’s Aulani Resort in Hawaii and delivered a performance so powerful, it had all three judges on their feet. The episode marked the start of the live rounds, where the power officially shifted from the judges to the audience.

It was an especially high-stakes night, as the top 24 contestants began competing for America’s vote. But Roberts didn’t seem fazed. He brought soul, energy, and grit to the stage—and impressed Jelly Roll himself, who’s serving as an artist-in-residence this season.

“It ain’t my song no more!”

Jelly Roll declared.

“I would feel disrespectful to call it my song at this moment. This is now Jamal’s song.”

Let’s break down why Roberts’ performance became the talk of American Idol this week.

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The moment Jamal Roberts made American Idol history

It’s not every day a contestant sings a mentor’s song better than the original—or at least that’s how Jelly Roll sees it. Jamal Roberts took a bold risk by choosing Liar, and it paid off.

The performance felt effortless but deeply emotional. Wearing a relaxed Hawaiian button-up, Roberts commanded the stage with his gospel-influenced vocals and charisma. By the final chorus, the crowd was on their feet.

“I can’t take my eyes off you when you’re doing your deal, and that’s what entertainment is all about,”

Luke Bryan told him.

Even Lionel Richie, no stranger to show-stopping performances, was floored.

“You took Mr. Roll’s song and beat it up! You exploded off the stage to the point that I had to compose myself,”

Richie said.

“If you had passed the collection plate, I would have given you all my money.”

It’s safe to say Roberts gave American Idol one of its most memorable moments this season.

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Disney week adds magic to the competition

Every year, Disney week on American Idol offers a change of scenery and a chance for contestants to reset after the emotional intensity of Hollywood Week. This season was no different.

The top 24 contestants were flown to Hawaii to perform live in front of a tropical crowd—and for the first time this season, for America’s vote. The sunny setting at Disney’s Aulani Resort made for a lighter, more relaxed atmosphere, but the pressure was still on.

After being whittled down from a starting pool of 144 hopefuls, the singers had to prove they were worthy of staying in the game. Judges Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, and Carrie Underwood could no longer save them—only the audience can.

And while many performances stood out, Jamal Roberts brought something that set him apart: confidence, control, and connection. American Idol just might have a new frontrunner.

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Jelly Roll reacts in real time

Jelly Roll wasn’t just in the audience—he was the artist whose song Roberts performed. His reaction wasn’t just a polite nod. It was total amazement.

Jelly Roll has been closely involved in mentoring this season’s contestants and is deeply invested in their growth. But Sunday night marked the first time a contestant tackled one of his own songs during the competition.

For Roberts, that meant a chance to show not just vocal skill but storytelling. The lyrics of Liar are emotionally charged, and Roberts leaned into every line.

Moments like this are what make American Idol resonate with fans year after year.

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Who else is in the top 24 of American Idol?

While Roberts had his breakout moment, the rest of the top 24 also delivered performances as part of the live broadcast.

Here’s the full list of contestants competing for your vote:

Canaan James Hill

Gabby Samone

Zaylie Windsor

Mattie Pruitt

Thunderstorm Artis

Drew Ryn

Ché

Grayson Torrence

Penny Samar

Josh King

MKY

Victor Solomon

Amanda Barise

Kyana Fenene

Slater Nalley

Baylee Littrell

John Foster

Filo

Kolbi Jordan

Isaiah Misailegalu

Olivier Bergeron

Desmond Roberts

Jamal Roberts

Breanna Nix

Each contestant will need support from viewers to make it to the next round. The second group of performers will take the stage Monday night at 8/7c on ABC, with the top 20 to be revealed Sunday, April 20.

You can vote for your favorite contestant at

American Idol’s voting site.