Who is Jamal Roberts? All you need to know about the CFP National Championship National Anthem singer

Jamal Roberts: From Mississippi To Miami’s Biggest Stage

Hard Rock Stadium hosts the championship for the second time since 2014. Miami plays home games there, creating an advantage against Indiana. Roberts won’t be alone in pre-game duties.

The Florida Memorial University Ambassador Chorale performs “America the Beautiful.” Two Miami-area high schoolers handle American Sign Language. Brianna Therve, 17, from Barbara Goleman High School, sings “America The Beautiful.” Maria Pernalete, 18, from Miami Palmetto High School, sings “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Kickoff starts closer to 7:50 p.m. despite the 7:30 p.m. listing.

What Makes Roberts Stand Out

His “American Idol” run showed range. He covered Jelly Roll’s “Liar,” Sam Cooke’s “A Change Is Gonna Come,” and Marvin Gaye’s “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough.” The finale featured The Temptations’ “Just My Imagination” and Tom Odell’s “Heal,” which became his breakout single.

Judges Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood, and Lionel Richie pushed him to the finale. The 26 million votes set a new ABC-era record. That’s the kind of number that gets you anthem gigs at championships. Monday decides if Roberts delivers in front of a title game crowd.

FAQ: Jamal Roberts

Q1: Who is singing the national anthem at the CFP championship?

A: Jamal Roberts, winner of “American Idol” Season 23.

Q2: When does the CFP national championship start?

A: The game is listed at 7:30 p.m., but kickoff will be closer to 7:50 p.m.

Q3: Where is the national championship game being played?

A: Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, home of the Miami Dolphins and the Miami Hurricanes.

Q4: How old is Jamal Roberts?

A: Jamal Roberts is 28 years old and works as a physical education teacher at Crestwood Elementary School in Meridian, Mississippi.

Q5: What was Jamal Roberts’ breakout song on American Idol?

A: Roberts’ cover of Tom Odell’s “Heal” became his breakout single and debuted at No. 1 on Billboard’s Hot Gospel Songs chart.