Gospel artist and American Idol Season 24 standout Keyla Richardson is stepping into a powerful new season—one marked by faith, purpose, and national recognition. Just one week before her emotional audition aired on ABC, Richardson released her latest single, “Joy in the Morning,” an uplifting anthem inspired by Psalm 30:5, which reminds listeners that while hardship may endure for a night, joy always comes with the morning.
The timing of the release felt intentional. As millions of viewers were introduced to Richardson’s voice and heartfelt story on American Idol, her new music offered a deeper glimpse into the faith and resilience that have carried her through years of perseverance.
Born and raised in Pensacola, Florida, Richardson began singing in church at just five years old. Although music was always part of her life, she has shared that it wasn’t until high school that she truly recognized the power of her voice and its ability to minister to others. Now 29, Richardson balances life as a single mother, gospel recording artist, and music educator, teaching at Life Shifting Learning Academy while raising her young son, Drew, who remains her greatest motivation.
Richardson is no stranger to the spotlight. In 2019, she emerged as a standout contestant on BET’s gospel competition series Sunday Best, advancing to the Top 4 out of tens of thousands of hopefuls. The experience, she later shared, affirmed her calling and allowed her to inspire young mothers and dreamers to keep going, even when the journey feels overwhelming.
Her momentum only grew from there. In 2020, Richardson released her EP So Good, with the title track soaring to No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart—a major milestone in her career. The project even caught the attention of actor Denzel Washington, who revealed he listened to the EP regularly on his way to work. Today, Richardson is a verified Spotify artist with thousands of monthly listeners and a catalog that includes beloved songs like “Prayer Will Change Things.”
Beyond music, Richardson has also explored acting, starring opposite Vivica A. Fox in the 2022 faith-based film Due Season. The role opened a new creative door, and Richardson has expressed interest in continuing to pursue acting alongside her music career.
Her long-awaited American Idol moment arrived with a soul-stirring audition of P!nk’s “Glitter in the Air.” The performance left judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood visibly moved, with Bryan wiping away tears and calling her voice “one that will stop people in their tracks.” Richie praised her range and presence, while Underwood shared a touching exchange with Richardson’s son Drew, who even sang a few lines of “God Only Knows,” charming everyone in the room.
As her audition aired, Richardson appeared on Get Up! Mornings with Erica Campbell, where she introduced “Joy in the Morning” and reflected on the growth, healing, and spiritual clarity that shaped the song. She described this season of her life as healthy and grounded—one rooted in maturity, gratitude, and unwavering faith.
Now advancing to Hollywood Week, reportedly held at Belmont University in Nashville, Richardson is embracing every moment of the journey. She continues to thank supporters for their encouragement and invites viewers to follow along as her American Idol story unfolds.
With fresh music, a growing fan base, and a heart anchored in purpose, Keyla Richardson is walking boldly into her next chapter—one filled with praise, promise, and the joy she so beautifully sings about.
