Keyla Richardson, a gospel singer born and raised in Pensacola, wowed judges and audiences with her powerful rendition of P!nk’s “Glitter in the Air” in her “American Idol” audition.
Richardson has been singing in Pensacola churches since her childhood, but she got her big break in 2019 performing on another televised singing competition, “Sunday Best.”
Some of Richardson’s other accomplishments include charting No. 1 on the gospel charts and landing a starring role alongside actress and producer Vivica A. Fox, all while also raising a son and teaching the next young generation of vocalists.
Here’s what to know about American Idol season 24 contestant Keyla Richardson.
Who is Keyla Richardson?
Keyla Richardson, 29, is a gospel singer who has been performing in Pensacola churches since the age of 5. However, she said it wasn’t until she got into high school that she realized what a gift her voice was, and its ability to move people.
Richardson teaches music at Life Shifting Learning Academy on Pensacola Boulevard, where she’s been for about six years, and is raising a young son, Drew.
A verified artist on Spotify with over 10,000 monthly listeners, Richardson released the EP “So Good” in 2020, and the launch single “So Good” became her first No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart.
As another feather in her cap, actor Denzel Washington said in an interview that he listened to the EP every morning going to work.
Keyla Richardson and son, Drew, wow American Idol judges
Auditioning for “American Idol” was a long-awaited dream for Richardson. Back in December, she was spotted being filmed on Pensacola Beach by Casino Beach Bar & Grille.
When she got the chance, Richardson wowed celebrity judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood, moving Bryan to tears.
The judges praised her performance, with Richie noting:
“I can imagine you on some songs where you would just blow the roof off this place because of the range.”
Richardson’s son, Drew, was there for the performance.
“Did you hear your mom?” Underwood asked him. “Did you hear how great she did?… We love her.”
Drew is also a singer and performed a rendition of “God Only Knows” by For King & Country.
Keyla Richardson previously appeared on “Sunday Best”
Richardson has showcased her voice on television before.
Tens of thousands of hopefuls auditioned for the ninth season of “Sunday Best,” a gospel singing competition hosted by Kirk Franklin with judges Erica Campbell, Kelly Price and Jonathan McReynolds.
Richardson was one of only 20 contestants who made the main stage and advanced to the final four before being eliminated.
She later said the experience was positive and uplifting and helped her use her platform to inspire others.
Keyla Richardson stars alongside Vivica A. Fox in “Due Season”
Richardson starred as Vicky Waters in the 2022 film “Due Season” alongside Vivica A. Fox.
In the film, she plays a young singer who must compete in a music contest after the death of her father to pay for school.
Richardson said acting was never originally part of her dreams, but the experience changed her perspective and opened a new path for her.
American Idol, Season 24 Finale, Monday, May 11, 8/7c, ABC and Disney+
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