Story perspectives

Mississippi Teacher Wows Judges on American Idol Premiere

1/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

Daniel Stallworth, a Moss Point, Mississippi, music teacher, impressed the judges on American Idol's season premiere with Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'."
Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan gave unanimous approval, and Stallworth's advance follows fellow Mississippian Jamal Roberts, who won the previous season.
He said, "I’m doing this for my students, to let them know you can reach your goals."
The next auditions will air on February 2, 2026.

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Story summary

Daniel Stallworth, a Moss Point, Mississippi, music teacher, impressed the judges on American Idol's season premiere with Journey's "Don't Stop Believin'."
Lionel Richie, Carrie Underwood, and Luke Bryan gave unanimous approval, and Stallworth's advance follows fellow Mississippian Jamal Roberts, who won the previous season.
He said, "I’m doing this for my students, to let them know you can reach your goals."
The next auditions will air on February 2, 2026.