Meridian native and “American Idol” reigning champion Jamal Roberts is releasing his newest single, “Mississippi,” as a tribute to the state that shaped his career.

In May, Roberts won “American Idol” in a record-breaking vote. In the months since the confetti fell and Ryan Seacrest called his name, Roberts has kept busy touring and recording. His single “Heal” debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart.

“Mississippi” will be available to download starting at 11 p.m. central DST on Thursday, July 24, on all major streaming platforms.

The single, a blend of gospel and R&B, was recorded at Electric Blue Studios in California and produced by Grammy-nominated producer Emile Ghantous, who is also credited as a co-writer. Daniel J. Capellaro and Christian Stalnecker are also credited as co-writers alongside Roberts.

From Meridian to Hollywood and back

Roberts, a 27-year-old P.E. teacher at Crestwood Elementary, started his “American Idol” Season 23 journey when he won a golden ticket singing “Mary Jane” by Rick James in audition rounds.

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Before competing on “American Idol,” Roberts grew a following singing covers on TikTok.

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In the weeks following his audition, Roberts traveled throughout the U.S. with his fellow contestants, eluding elimination rounds with his raw, soulful performances.

On May 12, Roberts became the fourth Mississippian in “American Idol” history to break the Top 3.

When Roberts first auditioned, judges Luke Bryan, Lionel Richie and Carrie Underwood were impressed, but agreed Roberts could use some more confidence. The singer gradually grew his stage presence, and by the finale, Roberts easily commanded the room.

Days before the finale, Roberts returned to Meridian for a massive homecoming celebration, including a parade. The concert that followed drew a crowd of 20,000. The entire population of Meridian is just over 33,500.

Shortly after his “American Idol” victory, Roberts told the Clarion Ledger that the following months were already booked with performances, interviews, appearances and recording sessions.

In between the busy days, Roberts planned to spend as much time as possible with his three daughters, Harmoni, 6, Lyrik, 4, and Gianna, who was born just two weeks before the “American Idol” finale.

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Roberts has faced his fair share of adversity in the months following his victory as well. In late June, the singer received backlash after the Laurel mayor offered Roberts a key to the city. Laurel residents felt Roberts did not deserve the key since he was not from the town, with some people even threatening to bring guns to his upcoming performance.

Roberts addressed the backlash in a Facebook Live after declining the key and still plans to perform in Laurel in August.

In September, Roberts will perform at the Jackson Convention Complex in a concert benefitting Alcorn State University Athletics.

Starting in the fall, Roberts will be joining Brandy and Monica on their “The Boy is Mine” tour.