Keyla Richardson: Bio, Age, Family, Son, Songs & American Idol Season 24 Journey
Keyla Richardson is a gospel singer, music teacher, and contestant on Season 24 of American Idol. Her powerful voice and emotional story made her one of the memorable performers during the premiere auditions. The Pensacola native impressed the judges and earned a Golden Ticket to Hollywood Week, continuing her journey in the competition.
Below is a detailed look at Keyla Richardson’s biography, family, audition, music career, and social media presence.
Keyla Richardson Biography
Keyla Richardson is an American gospel singer and music teacher from Pensacola, Florida. She grew up in church and started singing in gospel settings from a very young age. Her early experiences in church helped shape her powerful vocal style and love for inspirational music.
Before appearing on American Idol, Keyla had already built a reputation as a talented gospel artist and performer. She also teaches music and enjoys helping young students discover their voices.
Keyla Richardson Age
Age: 29 years old (during American Idol Season 24)
Hometown: Pensacola, Florida, United States
At 29, Keyla entered American Idol with years of performance experience and musical training.
Keyla Richardson Parents and Family
Keyla Richardson has kept most details about her parents and family life private. However, her father has played a role in her church life, serving as a pastor at Abundance of Life Temple of Praise, where Keyla also served as a praise and worship leader earlier in her career.
Her family and faith background have strongly influenced her music and career.
Keyla Richardson Son
Keyla is a single mother to a young son named Drew.
During her American Idol audition, Drew appeared in the audition room and briefly sang “God Only Knows” by Dolly Parton and For King & Country for the judges, creating one of the most emotional moments of the episode.
Keyla has said that her son is her biggest motivation and the reason she continues pursuing her dreams.
Church and Faith
Faith plays a major role in Keyla Richardson’s life and music. She began singing in church at around five years old and continued performing in gospel services and church events throughout her life.
She previously served as a praise and worship leader at her church and continues to perform gospel music.
Keyla Richardson Songs
Before joining American Idol, Keyla already had an established gospel music career.
Some of her songs include:
“So Good” – title track from her 2020 gospel EP
“Home” – released in 2024
“Joy in the Morning” – gospel single
Her song “So Good” also reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Gospel Airplay chart, helping her gain national attention in Christian music.
American Idol Audition
Keyla Richardson auditioned during the Season 24 premiere of American Idol. The Season 24 judges are Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie. For her audition, Keyla performed Glitter in the Air by P!nk. Her emotional performance impressed the judges, though they initially offered some coaching during the audition.
Keyla ultimately received three yes votes from all three judges, earning a Golden Ticket to Hollywood Week.
Hollywood Week and Top 30
After her successful audition, Keyla advanced to Hollywood Week, where contestants compete in several rounds including solo performances, duets, and group performances.
Richardson is among the contestants who have advanced to Top 30 of American Idol season 24. Other constants who made it to Top 30, ‘Ohana Round’ in Hawaii, include Lucas Leon, Madison Moon, Jordan McCullough, Makiyah, Bella Emry, Braden Rumfelt and Chris Tungseth.
Keyla Richardson Net Worth
Keyla Richardson’s estimated net worth is around $200,000. Her source of income is:
Gospel music sales and streaming
Live performances and church events
Teaching music
Keyla Richardson Instagram
Keyla Richardson is active on social media and regularly shares music updates, inspirational messages, and moments with her son.
Instagram: @iamkeylarichardson
Her Instagram page has gained thousands of followers since her American Idol appearance.
Quick Facts About Keyla Richardson
Full name: Keyla Richardson
Age: 29
Hometown: Pensacola, Florida
Profession: Gospel singer and music teacher
Son: Drew
Audition song: “Glitter in the Air” by P!nk
American Idol result: Golden Ticket, advanced to Hollywood Week