Pensacola native Keyla Richardson left both judges and viewers in awe during her American Idol audition with a soaring, emotional rendition of P!nk’s “Glitter in the Air.” The gospel singer’s powerhouse vocals and heartfelt delivery stopped the room — even bringing Luke Bryan to tears.
Born and raised in Pensacola, Richardson has been singing in local churches since childhood, but her journey to the Idol stage has been years in the making. Long before her Golden Ticket moment, she was already building a remarkable career in gospel music — while balancing motherhood, teaching, and acting.
Who Is Keyla Richardson?
Now 29, Richardson began singing in church at just five years old. While music was always part of her life, she says it wasn’t until high school that she truly understood the power of her voice and its ability to move people.
She currently teaches music at Life Shifting Learning Academy on Pensacola Boulevard, where she’s worked for about six years, and is raising her young son, Drew.
Richardson is also a verified artist on Spotify with more than 10,000 monthly listeners. Her 2020 EP So Good produced a breakout title track that reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart, marking a major milestone in her career. The project even caught the attention of Denzel Washington, who revealed in an interview that he listened to the EP every morning on his way to work.
A Dream Idol Audition — With Family by Her Side
Auditioning for American Idol had long been a dream for Richardson. In December, she was spotted filming her audition scenes on Pensacola Beach, hinting that something big was on the way.
When her moment arrived, she delivered. Judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie, and Carrie Underwood praised her vocal control, range, and emotional depth.
“I can imagine you on songs where you’d just blow the roof off this place,” Richie told her.
Luke Bryan was visibly emotional, calling her voice “one that will stop people in their tracks.”
Richardson’s son Drew watched proudly from the audition room. Underwood made sure to acknowledge him, telling the young boy, “Did you hear how great your mom did? We love her.”
Drew even charmed the judges himself with a brief performance of “God Only Knows” by For King & Country.
A Familiar Face on Competition TV
This isn’t Richardson’s first time on a major stage. In 2019, she competed on Season 9 of Sunday Best, a gospel-focused singing competition hosted by Kirk Franklin and judged by Erica Campbell, Kelly Price, and Jonathan McReynolds.
Out of tens of thousands of hopefuls, Richardson made it to the Top 4, earning praise week after week. She later said the experience gave her a powerful sense of purpose.
“That platform let me inspire young mothers and young people,” she shared. “To let them know you can still go through life and pursue your dreams. Nothing can stop you.”
From Music to the Big Screen
In addition to singing, Richardson has also stepped into acting. She starred as Vicky Waters in the 2022 film Due Season, alongside actress and producer Vivica A. Fox.
The film tells the story of a young singer navigating grief, responsibility, and faith through gospel music. It also stars BeBe Winans and Dorien Wilson and is currently available to stream on BET Plus.
Richardson says acting wasn’t originally part of her plan, but the experience opened a new door.
“I never thought I’d be an actor,” she admitted. “But after that first movie, it became something I want to continue pursuing.”
What’s Next on American Idol
With her Golden Ticket secured, Keyla Richardson is heading to Hollywood Week, which this season will 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. CT, or streaming episodes the next day on Hulu.
With her faith, talent, and unmistakable voice, Keyla Richardson is proving she’s not just competing — she’s inspiring.