Pensacola native Keyla Richardson made a powerful first impression on American Idol season 24, stunning judges and viewers alike with her soaring rendition of P!nk’s “Glitter in the Air.” The gospel singer’s emotional performance showcased both her vocal range and heartfelt delivery, quickly setting her apart during auditions.
Richardson has been singing in Pensacola churches since she was a child, but her journey into the national spotlight began in 2019 when she competed on BET’s gospel singing competition Sunday Best. Since then, she has built an impressive résumé, including a No. 1 gospel radio hit, a growing music career, and even a role in a feature film—while balancing motherhood and teaching music to young students.
At 29, Richardson teaches at Life Shifting Learning Academy on Pensacola Boulevard, where she has spent the past six years mentoring aspiring vocalists. She is also raising her young son, Drew, who proudly supported her during her American Idol audition.
A verified Spotify artist with more than 10,000 monthly listeners, Richardson released her EP So Good in 2020. Its title track became her first No. 1 song on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart. The project earned widespread praise, including a notable shoutout from Denzel Washington, who revealed he listened to the EP daily on his way to work.
During her American Idol audition, Richardson moved judge Luke Bryan to tears, while Lionel Richie praised her vocal range and star potential. Carrie Underwood shared in the admiration, especially when Richardson’s son watched proudly from the sidelines. Drew even charmed the judges himself with a brief performance of “God Only Knows” by For King & Country.
Before American Idol, Richardson was among the top 20 contestants on season nine of Sunday Best, hosted by Kirk Franklin and judged by Erica Campbell, Kelly Price, and Jonathan McReynolds. She advanced to the final four, earning praise for her consistency, faith, and emotional connection with audiences.
Richardson has also expanded her talents beyond music. In 2022, she starred alongside Vivica A. Fox in the film Due Season, portraying a young singer who relies on gospel music to overcome personal loss and financial hardship. The experience sparked a new passion for acting, something Richardson says she never expected but now hopes to pursue further.
Richardson will continue her American Idol journey in Hollywood Week, which is set to take place at Belmont University in Nashville, Tennessee. Fans can follow her progress by tuning in to American Idol on ABC every Monday at 7 p.m. Central, with episodes also available to stream on Hulu the following day.