When Keyla Richardson stepped onto the American Idol stage, she brought more than just a powerful voice — she carried years of faith, perseverance, and hard-earned experience. The Pensacola native stunned judges and viewers alike with her soaring rendition of P!nk’s “Glitter in the Air,” instantly setting herself apart as one of Season 24’s standout auditions.
The gospel singer’s performance wasn’t just technically impressive — it was deeply emotional, leaving judges visibly moved and cementing her place in the next round of the competition.
From Church Choirs to the National Stage
Born and raised in Pensacola, Florida, Richardson, 29, has been singing in church since she was just five years old. While her talent was always evident, she says it wasn’t until high school that she truly understood the impact her voice could have on others.
Today, Richardson balances multiple roles. She is a music teacher at Life Shifting Learning Academy on Pensacola Boulevard, where she has taught for nearly six years, and she’s also raising her young son, Drew — all while pursuing a professional music career.
A Gospel Star in Her Own Right
Richardson is already a familiar name in the gospel world. A verified Spotify artist with more than 10,000 monthly listeners, she released her EP So Good in 2020. The title track quickly climbed to No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart, marking a major milestone in her career.
Her music has reached some high-profile listeners as well. Actor Denzel Washington once shared that he listened to Richardson’s EP every morning on his way to work — a testament to the song’s emotional power and reach.
A Dream Moment on American Idol
Auditioning for American Idol had long been a dream for Richardson. In December, locals spotted her being filmed at Pensacola Beach, hinting at the opportunity to come.
When her moment arrived, she delivered — moving Luke Bryan to tears and earning glowing praise from Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood.
“I can imagine you on songs where you’d just blow the roof off this place,” Richie said, praising her vocal range and command of the stage.
A Family Moment That Melted Hearts
Richardson’s son Drew was in the room during her audition, making the moment even more special.
“Did you hear your mom?” Underwood asked him. “Did you hear how great she did? We love her.”
The judges were even more charmed when Drew revealed that he sings too, offering a sweet rendition of “God Only Knows” by For King & Country that drew smiles from the panel.
A Familiar Face From Sunday Best
This isn’t Richardson’s first time on a televised singing competition. In 2019, she appeared on Season 9 of BET’s Sunday Best, a gospel-focused competition hosted by Kirk Franklin.
Out of tens of thousands of hopefuls, Richardson was one of just 20 contestants selected to perform on the main stage. Week after week, she impressed judges Erica Campbell, Kelly Price, and Jonathan McReynolds, ultimately finishing in the Top 4.
Reflecting on that experience, Richardson said the platform gave her a chance to inspire others.
“You can still be going through things and pursue your dreams,” she said. “Nothing can stop you.”
Expanding Her Talent to Film
Richardson’s career has also expanded beyond music. In 2022, she starred alongside Vivica A. Fox in the film Due Season, playing Vicky Waters, a young singer who uses gospel music to overcome personal loss and fight for her future.
The experience opened new doors for Richardson.
“I never thought acting would be something I’d do,” she said. “But now it’s something I want to continue exploring.”
Due Season is currently available to stream on BET+.
What’s Next for Keyla Richardson?
Richardson is now headed to Hollywood Week, which this season is expected to take place at Belmont University in Nashville as part of “American Idol University.”
Fans can follow her journey by tuning in to ABC every Monday at 7 p.m. Central, with episodes available the next day on Hulu.
With a powerful voice, a compelling story, and unwavering faith, Keyla Richardson is proving she’s more than ready for the spotlight — and her American Idol journey is just getting started.
