Keyla Richardson is Pensacola, Florida-based gospel singer, music teacher, and American Idol 2026 contestant. She is a single mother who appeared in the final four on BET’s gospel competition Sunday Best. Richardson’s performance was considered a standout emotional moment in the American Idol Season 24 premiere. Judges and audiences praised her humility and strength, noting her confidence growth during the audition.
Keyla Richardson quick facts
- Full Name: Keyla Richardson
- Profession: Singer ⋅ Music Teacher ⋅ American Idol Contestant
- Age: 29 (as of 2026)
- Hometown: Pensacola, Florida, USA
- Notable TV Appearances: American Idol Season 24 (2026) and Sunday Best (BET gospel competition)
- Musical Style: Gospel ⋅ Soul ⋅ Pop covers with emotional delivery
- Signature Idol Audition: “Glitter in the Air” (P!nk cover)
- Judges’ Reaction: All “YES” votes; Luke Bryan emotionally moved by her performance
- Family: Single mother; son’s presence at audition touched the judges and viewers
- Music Background: Sang in church from a young age; Experienced gospel performer
Keyla Richardson age
American Idol contestant Keyla Richardson’s age is 29 years as of American Idol Season 24, 2026. She was born to Kaja and Willie Richardson
| Age in 2026 | 29 years |
| Birth date | |
| Parents | Kaja and Willie Richardson. |
| Birth year | |
| Hometown | Pensacola |
Keyla Richardson family
Keyla Richardson’s father’s name is Willie Richardson. Her mother’s name is Kaja Richardson. She is a single mother and loves her son, Drew, very much. She says, “My son means the world to me — he’s all I’ve got and he’s my best friend. Because of him, I’m here, and I will never give up.”
Keyla Richardson songs
Keyla Richardson’s music style typically includes contemporary gospel with traditional soul elements, rich, expressive vocal runs and emotional storytelling, and music that resonates with both spiritual and secular listeners.
| Songs | Album |
| So Good | So Good (2020 |
| Home (2024) | |
| Joy in the Morning (2025) | |
| Glitter in the Air (cover on Idol) |
Heyward on American Idol audition
During her Idol audition, Richardson delivered a soulful rendition of “Glitter in the Air” by P!nk, which moved judge Luke Bryan to tears and won praise from all three judges for her power, range, and emotional expression.
On music
She says, “Music wasn’t a natural passion for me. I knew I could sing — everyone around me believed in me but me. I wanted to play basketball. I’ve been a music teacher for about six years. When those kids step into my classroom, I see myself. I grew up in the church and grew up singing, but I always felt like I wasn’t good enough. Nobody saw me. Nobody heard me. I had to make up my mind and say, ‘You can do this. Whatever you put your mind to, you can do.’”
FAQs
Q: Who is Keyla Richardson?
A: Keyla Richardson is an American singer and music teacher who gained national attention as a standout contestant on American Idol Season 24 (2026). She is known for her powerful vocals, emotional performances, and gospel-influenced style.
Q: Is Keyla Richardson married?
A: Yes. Keyla Richardson has publicly shared that she is married.
Q: Who is Keyla Richardson’s husband?
A: The name of her husband is not widely published in mainstream media as of 2026. Keyla tends to keep specific personal details private, outside her role as a mother and performer.
Q: Do they have children?
A: Yes. Keyla is a mother, and her son’s presence and support have been highlighted in media coverage, especially around her American Idol audition.
Q: What is Keyla Richardson’s net worth?
A: Keyla Richardson’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed. Estimates from entertainment industry trackers place her in the five-figure to low six-figure range (USD) as of 2026, based on her career as a music teacher, performer, gospel artist, touring singer, and television appearances — including American Idol and BET’s Sunday Best. (Unofficial estimate)
Q: How does she earn money?
A: She earns money from her singing performances and live shows, music teaching and vocal coaching, television appearances (American Idol, Sunday Best), music releases and streaming royalties.
Q: What song did Keyla sing on American Idol?
A: Keyla Richardson auditioned with “Glitter in the Air” by P!nk, delivering a soulful and powerful rendition that earned a Golden Ticket to Hollywood Week from all three judges.
Q: How did the judges react to her audition?
A: Keyla’s performance moved judge Luke Bryan to tears, and the judges praised her vocal strength, emotional delivery, and stage presence.
Q: Where is Keyla Richardson from?
A: She is originally from Pensacola, Florida, USA.
Q: What is her background in music?
A: Keyla started singing in church, developing gospel and soul influences. She competed on BET’s Sunday Best, where she reached the final four. She later became a music teacher and performer, teaching vocal technique and inspiring young singers before her American Idol breakthrough.
Q: Does she interact with fans?
A: Yes. She often engages with fans through social media comments, live streams, and posts about her musical journey.
Q: Has Keyla released original music?
A: While she is primarily known for her vocal performances and interpretation of songs, Keyla’s pre-Idol music presence has included live performances and gospel repertoire. Official original recordings may vary by platform.
Q: What genre does Keyla sing?
A: She is best known for gospel, soul, and pop covers, with emotional vocal styling that resonates on both television stages and live audiences.
Q: Is Keyla Richardson religious?
A: Keyla’s gospel music background and vocal upbringing in church suggest a strong connection to faith and spiritual music, though she has not issued an official public statement about her religious affiliation.
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